“I think those who have a terminal illness and are in great pain should have the right to choose to end their own life, and those that help them should be free from prosecution.”
- January 8, 1942 – March 14, 2018
- British
- Theoretical physicist, science writer
- Announced the black hole singularity theorem and Hawking radiation, and contributed to the popularization of science with his book “Talking about the Universe”
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Quote
“I think those who have a terminal illness and are in great pain should have the right to choose to end their own life, and those that help them should be free from prosecution.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking expresses support for euthanasia or assisted suicide for individuals suffering from terminal illnesses and extreme pain. The idea is rooted in the belief that individuals should have the right to autonomy over their own lives, including the choice to end their suffering when faced with an incurable condition. The statement advocates for a compassionate approach to end-of-life decisions, emphasizing individual rights and the freedom to make personal choices, particularly in cases where the suffering is unbearable and no medical treatment can alleviate it.
Hawking’s position is significant, as it reflects a thoughtful, humanistic perspective on the ethics of death, particularly from someone who himself faced severe physical limitations due to motor neurone disease (ALS). Despite his own debilitating condition, Hawking was an advocate for human dignity and individual freedoms, and his endorsement of the right to choose death in the face of terminal illness resonated with the broader debates surrounding euthanasia and assisted dying. His statement aligns with arguments made by bioethicists and some medical professionals who believe that patients should be able to exercise control over their end-of-life decisions, particularly in jurisdictions where euthanasia is legally contentious.
In modern times, this topic remains highly debated across different cultures, religious beliefs, and legal systems. While some countries like the Netherlands and Belgium have legalized euthanasia under specific conditions, others, like the United States, have more restrictive policies. In countries where euthanasia is illegal, individuals who seek assistance to end their lives often face legal repercussions. Hawking’s statement contributes to the ongoing discussion about how society should balance moral considerations, medical ethics, and individual rights in determining the course of action for terminally ill patients facing unbearable suffering.
