The argument over freedom of choice and the moral issues surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide has become one of the most combated issues of our time. Euthanasia is the intentional killing by act or omission of a dependent human being for his or her alleged benefit. Euthanasia is

Here in the United States, the interest in the topics of euthanasia and assisted suicide were not in the spotlight until the case of Karen Ann Quinlan came along. As she suffered from a terminal illness, which left her in a coma, the parents of Karen strongly requested that all life support systems be removed. Arguments flared for quite some time, until eventually the doctor's granted the parents' request. As they waited for Karen to take her final breaths, all onlookers were amazed to see her continue to survive. Though still in a coma, she managed to live some time before eventually passing away. Society began to recognize her and this case as the beginning of a dispute that is still carried on today (Steinfels).

Some people also have other reasons why they are skeptical about the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide. Do those considering suicide or euthanasia choose to do so merely to saved their loved ones money? If so, there is an argument on the value of life. Is it possible to put a cash value on a person's life, or should treatment be administered at all times, no matter the cost? These questions have the ability to spark violent verbal debates (Greenhouse).

The first doctor that was charged with a crime for euthanasia was Harold Blazer. He soaked a rag in chloroform, and held it over the mouth and nose of his daughter, who suffered for 30 years with cerebral spinal meningitis. He was later acquitted at his trial. The first man to actually be found guilty was Joseph Hassman. On the debate of this pivotal issue, one man in particular, Dr. Jack Kevorkian has intrigued many, and deeply enraged an equal amount. Rather than using his hard earned doctorate to help needy patients carry on, Kevorkian puts his medical science knowledge to the test by putting people out of their misery. Known as "Doctor Death", he has helped numerous people, mostly women, end their lives. The most common methods of Dr. Kevorkian's assisted suicides include the inhalation of carbon monoxide or the use of an intravenous with lethal dosages. Most of the deceased are brought to a hospital to be pronounced dead. Kevorkian said this is done to avoid large media crews following him around the scene of the death. This offers no opportunity of emotional news tapes to be recorded and shown, which hampers the already questionable integrity of Dr. Kevorkian. After representing himself in court, Kevorkian, now 74, is currently serving a 10- to 25-year prison sentence for his 1999 second-degree murder conviction in the death of Thomas Youk, who had Lou Gehrig's disease. Kevorkian taped the death, which was seen by millions of people on the CBS newsmagazine "60 Minutes". This October, the U.S. Supreme court has decided not to hear Kevorkian's appeal to the case. He is eligible for parole in 2007.

In 1994, Oregon was the first state to pass legislation concerning physician assisted suicide, with the Death With Dignity Act. This law allows doctors to prescribe, but not administer lethal drugs for patients deemed terminally ill. Since its passing, approximately ninety people have ended their lives using the prescriptions from their doctors, usually an oral overdose of barbiturates.

For every person in favor of assisted suicide and euthanasia, there are just as many that are strongly opposed to it. Most commonly, opposition has come in the form of organized religion. Most religions, in fact, se

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