How do you want to die? Learning to die

Abstract

Like any cultural event, the process of dying is influenced by the social context of its occurrence. Hence, as opposed to a so-called traditional model in the process of dying, currently there is another model, that may called a biographical model, still in an emerging stage, that takes into account considerations made and practices carried out by people who wish to adopt or assume a larger role and responsibility regarding issues surrounding their death. As a result, from the viewpoint of adults exercising their individual human rights and freedoms, considerations and discussions are emerging on how may individuals plan their (normally age-related) illnesses and the ensuing dependency period, exert a larger degree of control over the circumstances surrounding their own death, and based on existing bioethical principles, approach the euthanasia debate.