Topic: Autonomy

The Principle of Autonomy – Does it Support the Legalisation of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide?

ABN Papers

February 5, 2026

Summary The principle of autonomy is often invoked in support of the legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide. How one defines ‘autonomy’, however, is a matter of dispute. A number of important considerations arise as a result of this dispute, and it is important to ensure that ‘autonomy’ is defined in a way that works