Do you agree with Stephen Hawking on euthanasia?

Assisted suicide is a very topical subject, however since Stephen Hawking joined the debate in 2013, whenever he’s shared his thoughts on it, the whole world has listened.

In a television interview with Dara O’Briain, Professor Hawking said he suffered bouts of loneliness because people were afraid to talk to him. When asked at what point he’d consider it for himself he replied, “To keep someone alive against their wishes is the ultimate indignity. I would consider assisted suicide only if I were in great pain or felt I had nothing more to contribute, but was just a burden to those around me.”

He also said, “I am damned if I’m going to die before I have unravelled more of the Universe.”

Way back in 2013 he said, “We don’t let animals suffer, so why humans?” and it actually had enough power to significantly change the minds of many people all over the world.

When asked what he misses about being able-bodied, he said, “I would like to be able to swim again. When my children were young, I missed not being able to play with them physically.” The 73 year old who suffers from motor neurone disease had gone through immense suffering under the public eye and the latest film about his condition gave us even more of an insight into just how great his suffering really has been.

Some people feel that his situation, and admirably he’s made the best of the cards life has dealt him, give him a particular level of authority to express opinions on the matter – and we agree.

So tell us today, do you agree with the views of Stephen Hawking on euthanasia? Is it something you’d consider if you were reduced to nothing but a burden on your loved ones?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation…