“A Special Defence”: A Psychiatric Approach to Formalising Euthanasia

Abstract

Domestic and world opinion is gradually changing towards the idea of tolerating or even legalising active euthanasia. The implications of this are examined using Foulke's concept of the ‘levels' in group discussions. Psychiatrists have a unique experience in using the statutory mental health legislation, in addition to the ordinary law, to regulate medical care. A new ‘special defence’ is suggested, to be enacted by Parliament, intended to justify, but also designed to control, deliberate acts of medical euthanasia.