Medical Assistance in Dying: A Critical Analysis of International Policies and Practices

This book provides an important overview and critical analysis of medical aid in dying (MAiD). Given that the practice is spreading internationally and that protocols for its use vary widely, it is important that the current protocols are carefully scrutinized with respect to their moral and legal foundations. We provide arguments in support of MAiD, generally speaking. We base this support on the notion of rational suicide. We also show that inconsistencies in the protocols for its use raise important moral and legal concerns. We provide a framework for how to critically analyze the various protocols that are currently in place internationally. We then use this framework to suggest changes in some protocols so that they can be enforced more consistently. This will also aid in protecting MAiD from concerns that the practice will fall prey to slippery slope concerns.