Written by a leading thinker in the field, this book, part of the" Biomedical Law and Ethics Library" series, provides readers with an in depth critique of the arguments for and against legislation in the area of assisted dying. Examining the direct conflict between the state; its role in protecting necessary third party involvement and safeguarding the moral tone of society, with the 'right to die' and highly personal choices of individuals concerning life and death, the author addresses its role in regulating practices. A must read, it explores the development of law; tracing its development from prohibition to the "laissez faire" attitude adopted in some countries in the twenty-first century.