The authors first review the historical context that led to the adoption of Article 115 of the Swiss Penal Code in 1943. This Article provides for a prison term not exceeding 5 years for every person who for selfish motives encourages or assists in the suicide of another. The scope of this Article is provided in more detail & some of the legal questions it has raised are discussed. Present proposals & future perspectives on regulating assisted suicide & euthanasia in Switzerland are described. (48 refs.)