Citation

Radtke R. J. Disability Policy Studies 2005; 16(1): 58-60.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Hammill Institute on Disabilities, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/10442073050160010901

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

To discuss the issues surrounding physician-assisted suicide, I use myself as a case study to address the arguments surrounding dignity, unbearable pain, autonomy, length of life, quality of life, and duress as they apply to one's life. Problems are identified along with possible solutions. The lack of encouragement by society leads to an unsupportive environment, which causes us to underestimate any potential for a quality life we might obtain. A remedy to this problem would be the establishment of a community support network in which people could develop socially as well as mentally. Such a network would allow people with painful and life-threatening conditions to have access to information regarding both the technology that would enable them to explore life and the basic knowledge to enjoy life.

Language: en