Slender Majority of Americans Favor Euthanasia, Doctor-Assisted Suicide
A newly released survey by Gallup revealed that a majority of Americans believe that doctors should be allowed to end the life of a patient by some painless means if the patient and their family request it. According to the poll, 71% of Americans support euthanasia, while 66% believe doctors should be allowed to assist terminal patients living in severe pain who request it.
The poll also showed that support for doctor-assisted suicide has increased over the past decade, with an average of 65% of Americans now favoring it, compared to an average of 58% in the previous decade. Euthanasia, on the other hand, has maintained consistent support over the past three decades, with 71% of Americans agreeing that doctors should be allowed to end a patient’s life by some painless means.
The poll also delved into the moral implications of doctor-assisted suicide, showing that a slim majority, 53%, believe the procedure is morally acceptable, while 40% call it morally wrong. Religiosity plays a significant role in shaping one’s perception of moral issues, with those who attend weekly religious services more likely to oppose doctor-assisted suicide.
The poll found that Americans living in regions where doctor-assisted suicide is allowed are more likely to view it as morally acceptable, with 66% of residents in the West and 57% of those in the East saying it is morally acceptable. No states in the South offer doctor-assisted suicide, and only 39% of residents in this region view it as moral.
The survey, which has been conducted since 1947, provides valuable insights into Americans’ views on end-of-life options and medical ethics. As the debate surrounding doctor-assisted suicide continues, understanding the public’s perspective is crucial for lawmakers, medical professionals, and the general public.