Euthanasia: the Medical Encounter and Faith (IN: Ethical Dilemmas: Crises in Faith and Modern Medicine, edited by J T Chirban)

The issue of euthanasia is examined through the following four questions: 1) Should euthanasia be allowed? 2) Do the dying need alternatives? 3) Is euthanasia ever justified? and 4) Who should decide if and when someone should die? The questions are addressed from the perspective of an Orthodox Christian physician. The author defines some commonly used terms that are often misunderstood. The role of the Church and active euthanasia is also discussed.