"The Right To Die"

[AB Editor]

 

This poll is closed.

Should "The Right To Die" be a universal human right?

• Yes - 217 votes
• 89%
• No - 27 votes
• 11%

See final stats

Stats until: 11:28 Sun 22nd Dec 2024 (Refreshed every 5 minutes)

© AnswerBank Ltd 2000 - 2024. All Rights Reserved.

[China Doll]

You'd have to have some damned good legislation in place though.

[jackthehat]

Quite right, CD, a properly administered legal framework.....

[scotman]

refresh every 5 minutes.

[anneasquith]

imo. the question is far too rigid, and not as simple as a yes or no.

[China Doll]

I think the hamsters take some time to get going pixi.

[roxie_09]

I think it really depends on the individuals capacity to make that decision. For example, if someone suffering depression wants to die because of the depression makes them feel theres no way out, hence suicide, would this be their right? As, when they would become well, they would no longer feel this way? some people may also feel that people that are paralsyed may have the right to die, however they may feel as though they have fulfilled lives etc.Who will decide then who has capacity to make these decisions x

[steg]

could you have "undecided" or "not sure"

[China Doll]

For example, if someone suffering depression wants to die because of the depression makes them feel theres no way out, hence suicide, would this be their right?

^^^ If someone wants to committ suicide due to depression then they will. I doubt they'll got to the bother of filling in some forms about it and expressing their reasons why.

'some people may also feel that people that are paralsyed may have the right to die, however they may feel as though they have fulfilled lives etc.Who will decide then who has capacity to make these decisions x '

^^^ I don't understand this either. People can feel what they like, it is up to the individual (paralysed or otherwise) to decide. I would imagine that the people taking up this option would be those with terminal and debilitating illnesses/medical conditions who may not at the crucial time be able to actually kill themselves.

Anyone can choose to end their own life but I think the right/choice to do it in a dignified and peaceful way should be there.

[roxie_09]

sorry china doll, i should have stated while in hospital should people suffering depression have this right.

[pa___ul3]

I know it's only after 13 votes but I surprised by the result so far!

[RATTER15]

Most definitely, I cant think of any reason why not, excluding mental illness, even then it shouldn't be ruled out it should be assessed.

[China Doll]

That's what you would need tight legislation for roxie. Anyway, if you really are that depressed, like I said, you'll find a way unfortunately (although hopefully not at rush hour on a tube/train line but that's probably just me being ultra mean, cold and uncaring... Bah Humbug).

[jackthehat]

For those 'undecided' or 'not sure', what sort of issues would you like to see addressed, or considered before you would be willing to give a Yes/No answer ?

[daffy654]

Many people who suffer from a degenerative and ultimately fatal condition (like myself) would like the right to choose how and when to die with dignity. We wouldn't let our pets die in pain and suffering, so why not be able to put human beings out of their suffering, pain and misery?

[pa___ul3]

I think that's an important point china, legalised assisted suicide would surely go some way to reducing the amount of people throwing themselves in front of trains etc. Which mus be absolutely horrific for the train drivers, police, etc dealing with the aftermath.
If legalised assisted suicide were an option for these people wanting to end it all, surely it would lead a lot to look down that route rather than just going for it in the heat of the moment. This could then open doors to therapy to overcome any issues of depression.

[rowanwitch]

someone who is really depressed might want to die but they have a treatable condition and would most likely change their mind once treated... In the case of an incurable life limiting condition with no effective palliation of symptoms available then for that group alone I'd agree

[steg]

"For those 'undecided' or 'not sure', what sort of issues would you like to see addressed, or considered before you would be willing to give a Yes/No answer ?"

i just have not given it much though.

[China Doll]

Quite right daffy.

I'm not necessarily advocating this particular choice for the seriously depressed pa_ul, it was more a tongue in cheek comment. However, I do have some rather un-PC opinons about people who committ suicide by jumping in front of trains/tubes or off buildings because of the suffering they then cause a complete stranger. I do think it's selfish and I've done this argument several times and had the whole, 'not thinking straight' side of it... but still can't quite let go of the '...it's well out of order to inflict your death and misery on to someone else...' mindset that I have.

I do think that ratter makes an interesting point about not completely excluding mental health disorders. I think I would agree with him but again, this is why i keep harking back to some damn heavy legislation would be needed.