Assisted Dying – Who Makes the Final Decision?

Should there be a change in the law to permit physicians and others to assist death in terminally ill, mentally competent people who have expressed a wish to die? A panel of expert commentators, including philosopher and author Raymond Tallis, address one of the most challenging questions of our times.

What is the most humane response to those individuals in extreme suffering and incapacitation who wish to die?

The topic of assisted dying raises many difficult ethical and legal issues, and there is a huge public interest in the legalisation debate. Lord Falconer’s Bill on assisted dying is due to have its crucial Second Reading in the House of Lords this summer.

Should there be a change in the law to permit physicians and others to assist death in terminally ill, mentally competent people who have expressed a settled wish to die?

The RSA gathers a panel of practitioners and commentators together to address one of the most challenging questions of our times.

Speakers to include: Lesley Close, editor of Assisted Dying – Who Makes the Final Decision? The Case for Greater Choice at the End of Life; Professor Raymond Tallis philosopher, physician and Chair of Healthcare Professionals for Assisted Dying Dr Kevin Yuill, senior lecturer, Faculty of Education & History, University of Sunderland and author of Assisted Suicide: The Liberal, Humanist Case Against Legalization.

Chair: Matthew Taylor, RSA chief executive