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dolebanana said 04/14, 08:19 PM
Euthanasia is a touchy subject to be sure, but after careful research and studies, I have concluded that voluntary euthanasia is justifiable. I have a number of reasons to believe so:

1) Economics.

Economically, voluntary euthanasia is beneficial. While it may seem heartless, in actuality, it must be mentioned. If a member of society may no longer contribute to that society but is rather a drain (via taxes, etc.), and said patient recognizes this, voluntary euthanasia is not only justifiable, but also noble of that person.


2) To end pain.

It is unfortunate that there is so much suffering that comes with disease, but that's the way it is. For some diseases, there cannot be an easing of the pain. If one is in such intolerable pain that death is preferable, then it seems only right that they may make that choice for themselves, and may rightfully request a doctor's assistance in their passing.


3) The alternative is worse.

By denying patients the right to do with their life what they please, they may take their life by more painful, horrible methods, because they simply cannot gain consent of their doctor.


Thanks for reading. I look forward to a good debate.

dolebanana said 04/15, 09:24 PM
1) On economics:

It is important to remember that I do not advocate the death of citizens who wishe to live, nor do I advocate cutting off funding for them. I am simply supporting the right of that person to do with their life what they please, even if that means forfeiting it. That said, despite any moral dilemmas which one may or may not have, voluntary euthanasia is still economically beneficial.


2) On ending pain:

Medical science improves every day, but there are some diseases for which there is no medicinal pain killer. We cannot out rule voluntary euthanasia for those who are in intolerable pain. Denying ill-stricken patients of the option not only diminishes the terrible pain they are suffering, but also treats them as intellectually inferior, that they are incapable of making decisions for themselves.


3) On the gruesome alternatives:

If we can assume that these victims cannot make rational decisions for themselves as my opponent suggests, we must also assume that they are too rationally lost to out rule suicide.

Finding a cure tomorrow will not stop the insufferable pain these victims feel today.

Bottom line: It really is a personal choice.

dolebanana said 04/16, 08:24 PM
1) On economics:

Like it or not, coercion occurs throughout our daily lives as it stands now. Voluntary euthanasia is no different than the solicitor on the phone trying to get you to buy whatever product he or she may be selling; it is just to a higher degree. The choice is still in the hands of the people whom it affects. In terms of lawsuits, not all hospitals would have to administer the euthanasia. It would be the hospital's choice, just like any other procedure.


2) On ending pain:

If one is incapable of making the decision to end his or her life by way of euthanasia, one certainly does have the mental capacity to avoid suicide. The short-term pain felt before suicide is hardly a deterrent for those wishing to end their lives. We must choose the lesser of two evils and allow for them to pass on peacefully.


3) On the alternatives:

Bear in mind that the topic at hand is for patients who are terminally ill. It is the choice of the victim along with the discretion of the doctor and the hospital, and if they choose to face the consequences, so be it. In terms of insurance, it is up to the companies.

In conclusion: Support personal choice. Allow for voluntary euthanasia.