For terminally ill patients, life could mean imprisonment in a body filled with never ending pain. The Constitution guarantees not only freedom, but also the pursuit of happiness. Surely there is no happiness in constant suffering. Some would argue that life is sacred and that we should seek to save and prolong it at all costs. Of course this is true, but once again one might return to the issue of quality. We have no problem with helping animals to die peacefully when they are terminally ill or in pain. I believe that human beings are all the more deserving of such a service. It is also not fair to expect family members to witness the prolonged suffering and degeneration of a loved one. If both the patient and family members are in agreement, I believe that assisted suicide should be provided in order to preserve the dignity of the patient. I therefore agree wholeheartedly with the outcome of the case. It is a pity that this law is not more common throughout the United States.

In terms of unanswered questions, there are two issues that could be addressed: the first is the status of the assisted-suicide law in other states, and the second is the authority to make the decision regarding assisted suicide. Ms. Greenhouse mentions that Oregon is the only state where assisted suicide is allowed. I would perhaps...

Is there at least a possibility that more states could legalize assisted suicide? In terms of the second question, I would have liked a more in-depth explanation of the authorization issue. Who makes the decision to go ahead with assisted suicide? To what degree should the patient already be in pain before a physician will allow the decision? I would also have liked to know whether all the family members should be in agreement, or if the final decision rests with the patient.
It appears that the article is presented in a fairly unbiased manner. The author presents both sides of the argument, perhaps with a slight leaning towards the outcome. Nevertheless, there is no emotional outburst regarding the benefits or fairness of the decision. Indeed, there is a good balance between the opposing views regarding the issue. Ms. Greenhouse proves this with the final quote in her article regarding the Government's support for a culture of life.

Sources

Greenhouse, Linda. "Assisted suicide gets a boost." In Deseret News. Salt Lake City, Jan 18, 2006. Database:

www.findarticles.com

Villarosa, Linda. "What have they done for us lately?" In Essence, May 1990. Database:

www.findarticles.com