Statement of the problem
There have been many debates on euthanasia, both moral and legal. The state of Australia has seen euthanasia legalized and later illegalized in between these discussions. As a result, there have been talks on whether there is need to ensure that the terminally ill die with dignity, and whether there is such a thing as dying with dignity. Other questions have been whether a human being has the right to take another’s life lawfully. This is besides the point that the laws of war discuss lawful taking away of life. This paper seeks to analyse why the acceptance of euthanasia is contentious and what can be done to reach an agreement on whether there is need legalise it or not.
Objectives of the Research
This research seeks to analyse whether the Australian law is right in prohibiting euthanasia. It also seeks to justify the legality or illegality of euthanasia as a medical procedure. The research also intends to act as a guideline to legislatures wishing to consider euthanasia as a lawful conduct.
Research questions
1. Is it reasonable to consider minority right through the introduction of a radical legislation affecting the right to life?
2. Does the legalisation of euthanasia have a ripple effect on legalisation of capital punishment?
3. Is the law permitting euthanasia capable of resulting in conflict of the medical personnel’s oath to save lives?
4. What is the guarantee of dying with dignity through choosing euthanasia