One of the issues that should be given special attention, when discussing euthanasia is the ethical question. Is euthanasia ethical? Even though it is very disputable issue one thing is clear - euthanasia can be ethical only under very specific circumstances. Derek Humphry, the founder of the Hemlock Society and the author of several books on euthanasia, including Jean's Way, Final Exit, and Dying with Dignity, thinks that suicide and therefore certain form of euthanasia can be justified. Humphry describes two forms of suicide: suicide for mental health reasons, which both he and the Hemlock Society oppose; and justifiable suicide, or "autoeuthanasia." He argues that "autoeuthanasia" is an acceptable choice for those suffering from terminal illness or severe physical handicap, and he outlines the conditions under which it can be considered an ethical act: "Being a mature adult (age depending on the individual). That it is clearly a considered decision. That the self-deliverance is not made at the first knowledge of the life threatening illness and that reasonable medical help is sought. That the treating physician has been informed and his response taken into account. Have made a will disposing of your worldly effects. Make plans to exit this life, which do not involve others in criminal liability. Leave a note saying exactly why you are self-destructing" (80-81). .
In those parameters Humphry describes euthanasia as a clear and simple procedure, which in actuality is just the opposite. His point of view applies only to an emotionally healthy person. If an individual is terminally ill, his emotional health and rationality are questionable. Since those parameters cannot apply to the bigger percentage of cases, they cannot judge autoeuthanasia. When patients remain conscious, their sense of integrity and of coherence of their lives crucially affects their judgment about whether it is in their best interests to continue to live.
