Euthanasia is defined as “the act or practice of painlessly putting to death people suffering from incurable and painful diseases as an act of mercy” (Paola). The purpose of this action is therefore not evil, as murder is, but compassionate. However, euthanasia in terms of physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is still illegal in the United States as it is considered a form of manslaughter. One of the most likely reasons PAS is illegal in the United States, with the exception of Oregon and Washington, is because it is morally and ethically controversial. When it comes to the topic of euthanasia, the four ethical goals of healthcare professionals are in direct conflict with each other. It can be argued that both allowing and preventing euthanasia violates one of these four principles which are as follows: beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice. Perhaps the greatest conflict is between the principles of autonomy and non-maleficence. When it comes to PAS we cannot allow our patients to act autonomously while ensuring they do not cause harm. Furthermore, the Hippocratic Oath constitutes a major obstacle on the road to legalization of PAS. The Hippocratic Oath is an oath taken by healthcare professionals at the beginning of practice that outlines the obligations and proper conduct of healthcare professionals. The Hippocratic Oath is based on the maxim “do no harm” and more specifically states “neither will I administer poison to anyone when asked to do so, nor will I suggest such conduct.” American medicine traditionally succumbs to this oath and has therefore made PAS illegal. It is important to note, however, that this oath was written thousands of years ago and may need to be revised given both and...... middle of paper ......omy is in direct conflict with the medical maxim “do no harm” I disagree. The principle of non-maleficence does not simply state “thou shalt not kill” but also states “thou shalt not cause pain or suffering.” For some, the decision to die is less painful than that of continuing to live. Legalizing PAS in my eyes would provide individuals with the greatest possible autonomy, i.e. choosing to end their lives on their own terms. When we are forced to suffer through a terminal illness and let our lives spiral out of our control, we are stripped of all autonomy. Allowing individuals to make this decision consciously and voluntarily would instead allow us to regain an empowering sense of autonomy in our final moments of life. Instead of forcing these patients to continue a life they don't want to live, we can refocus healthcare resources on those who need and want help.