The author wonders whether it would be better for physicians to withold their care in cases where death might come reasonably soon if they did so. He argues that according to the law it seems that life must be continued & must even be prolonged as long as possible. He compares the “mercy” killing of animals & criminals to the position of people who are ill. He also argues for favoring a gentle & careful “good death” in extreme cases of age & illness & pain.