Death, we all must face it some time or another. After all, isn't death just a part of life? Whether we accept it or not an end to something that has begun is inevitable. But why, then, must some choose to die before their time? The term 'euthanasia' comes from the Greek word meaning 'easy death'. Stedman's Medical dictionary defines euthanasia as, "the intentional putting to death of a person with an incurable or painful disease intended as an act of mercy" (485). Black's Law dictionary, on the other hand, has a definition for euthanasia that is quite different; it states that euthanasia is "the act or practice of killing or bringing about the death of a person who suffers from an incurable disease or condition. Euthanasia is sometimes regarded, by law, as second degree murder, manslaughter, or criminally negligent homicide" (609).
             Currently, euthanasia is only legalized in few areas, such as the Netherlands and the State of Oregon. Although Oregon legalized euthanasia only recently, the Netherlands has been practicing euthanasia since the 1970's. At the beginning euthanasia was only permitted for terminally ill patients but it has escalated so much that now you no longer need to be terminally ill to request the 'easy death'. Even if a patient just suffers from extreme depression, they too can request to be 'euthasized'.
             Because of the historical, social, and medical factors of euthanasia, the laws against euthanasia should be reexamined.
             In 400 B.C., Hippocrates, the 'Father of Medicine' once stated, "I will give no deadly medicine to anyone if asked, nor suggest any such counsel" (History of Euthanasia 1). Throughout English and early 19th century United States history, euthanasia has always been looked down upon. Although highly practiced it was not without punishment if caught. For over 700 years, the Anglo American comm...