Spanish Attitudes Towards Euthanasia and Physician-assisted Suicide

Abstract

This study examines the process of dying and considers death as an important social reality. Currently, a socially-shared ideal exists regarding this process and what would ultimately be considered a good death. This ideal is attainable, however, empirically and legally, it is not realistic. Along these lines, we have established an initial objective of measuring the support for two practices that could potentially help achieve the so-called "exit fees": euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. Second, we test whether or not there are significant differences in the opinions and attitudes of Spaniards regarding their regulation and we examine the sociodemographic and contextual characteristics that could possibly help to explain these practices. And, finally, we interpret and discuss the empirical results from a sociological perspective, based on civic republicanism and bioethics.