This article examines voluntary active euthanasia from two perspectives: individual cases & public policy. The potential benefits & adverse consequences of legalizing euthanasia are reviewed. The practice of euthanasia in terms of fairness & equity & its impact on medicine is also discussed. The article ends by concluding that the position of the American Geriatrics Society, that the potential adverse consequences of a public policy that allows voluntary active euthanasia outweigh the benefits to individual patients, is sound. This organization’s call for public policy to focus on supportive & compassionate care for the dying is also applauded.