Essay On Euthanasia

Dealing with a terminal illness is an incredibly difficult and painful journey, and some people suffering find comfort in the choosing to die in a humane and consensual way. Euthanasia, usually known as the painless killing of a patient, is a possible solution, yet it is very controversial. It is often confused with physician assisted dying, which involves a physician that gives necessary means and the act is actually carried out by the patient themselves, instead of the physician like in the process of euthanasia. Though it is sometimes known as mercy killing, many groups fiercely oppose or support euthanasia. Euthanasia is considered illegal in some parts of the world, such as most of the United States, and the discussion surrounding it raises …show more content…
Due to the taboo and controversial nature of the discussion on euthanasia, cosmopolitanism can aid in using respectful and understanding conversation to analyze all sides of the argument. One of the primary justifications for euthanasia is to allow a patient and their family to have the power to make the choice to finally rest after bearing much suffering, usually in the context of a terminal disease. The exact level of acceptance or justification varies with the different types of euthanasia. There are three different types of euthanasia: voluntary, non- voluntary, and involuntary ("Euthanasia & Assisted Suicide”). Voluntary euthanasia is when the direct consent of the patient is given. Non- voluntary is when direct consent is unavailable due to the patient being unconscious or underage. Involuntary is when the act is against the will of the patient. The process can actually be further divided into active and passive euthanasia. Active euthanasia is when a physician deliberately performs an action that leads to the death of a patient, and is typically quicker and less painful. Passive euthanasia involves …show more content…
People who oppose euthanasia tend to believe that a person may not always know what is best for them, and that life is a gift that should be appreciated, not destroyed. There is also the idea that a person should fight through their struggle and stay alive for their family. Supporters on euthanasia also believe that life is important, yet for people who are not living a full life due to being inhibited by a disease or disability, the option to end their suffering in a respectful manner and live their remaining lives to the fullest should be available. This is a clear example of similar values, but different justifications. This is similar to the heated conflict about abortion in the sense that “What makes these conflicts so intense is that they are battles over the meaning of the same values, not that they oppose one value, held exclusively by one sides, with another, held exclusively by their antagonists.” (Appiah, 57). Cosmopolitanism does not expect everyone to conform to one lifestyle, thought process, or even accepting cosmopolitanism. Yet by both sides, no matter how severely they oppose each other, have similar core beliefs. By highlighting this similarity, it is easier for both sides to relate to each other a bit more, potentially allowing them to be a bit more open minded when considering each other’s arguments and points of view. If they can both agree that