Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Euthanasia” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Euthanasia
1. What is euthanasia?
2. Are there different types of euthanasia? Can you name them?
3. In what situations might someone consider euthanasia?
4. Is euthanasia legal in your country?
5. How do people in your culture view euthanasia?

II. Ethical Considerations
6. Is it ethical to end someone’s life if they are in pain?
7. Who should decide if euthanasia is an option: the patient, the family, or the doctors?
8. Can euthanasia be considered a form of mercy?
9. Should there be age restrictions on euthanasia?
10. How does religion influence views on euthanasia?

III. Legal Aspects
11. What laws exist regarding euthanasia in countries where it is legal?
12. Should there be a legal process to approve euthanasia? What might it include?
13. How do laws protect doctors who perform euthanasia?
14. Can euthanasia be abused? How?
15. How do laws differ between countries on euthanasia?

IV. Medical Perspectives
16. What medical conditions might lead to a euthanasia decision?
17. How do doctors feel about performing euthanasia?
18. Is palliative care always an alternative to euthanasia?
19. How do medical ethics address euthanasia?
20. Should medical students be taught about euthanasia?

V. Personal Stories
21. Have you heard any personal stories about euthanasia?
22. How do families cope with the decision of euthanasia?
23. Can euthanasia be a peaceful end?
24. What emotional impact does euthanasia have on those involved?
25. How do people change their views on euthanasia after personal experience?

VI. Social and Cultural Impact
26. How does society’s view on euthanasia affect individuals’ choices?
27. Can the legalization of euthanasia change cultural attitudes towards death?
28. How do media portrayals of euthanasia influence public opinion?
29. What role do support groups play for those considering euthanasia?
30. How can education improve understanding and acceptance of euthanasia?

VII. International Perspectives
31. How do attitudes towards euthanasia differ internationally?
32. Can international experiences with euthanasia guide policy in other countries?
33. What lessons can be learned from countries with legalized euthanasia?
34. How do international human rights laws view euthanasia?
35. Is there a global consensus on euthanasia?

VIII. The Future of Euthanasia
36. How might advances in medicine affect the future of euthanasia?
37. Can technology play a role in euthanasia decisions?
38. What future legal changes could impact euthanasia?
39. How can society prepare for changes in euthanasia practices?
40. What are the ethical considerations for the future of euthanasia?

IX. Debates and Controversies
41. What are the main arguments for and against euthanasia?
42. How do debates on euthanasia reflect broader societal values?
43. Can there be a compromise in the euthanasia debate?
44. How do personal beliefs impact one’s stance on euthanasia?
45. What role does fear play in the euthanasia debate?

X. Personal Beliefs and Euthanasia
46. How do your personal beliefs affect your view on euthanasia?
47. Would you consider euthanasia for yourself or a loved one under certain conditions?
48. How do you think experiencing a terminal illness would change your views on euthanasia?
49. Can someone’s opinion on euthanasia change over time? Why?
50. How important is it to respect others’ decisions regarding euthanasia?

XI. Euthanasia and Healthcare Systems
51. How does euthanasia fit into the broader healthcare system?
52. Should health insurance cover euthanasia where it’s legal?
53. How does euthanasia impact healthcare professionals emotionally?
54. Can euthanasia lead to better end-of-life care?
55. What role do hospices play in the euthanasia discussion?

XII. Philosophical Perspectives
56. What do different philosophies say about the right to die?
57. How does the concept of dignity relate to euthanasia?
58. Can euthanasia be considered a personal freedom?
59. How does the value of life weigh against suffering in euthanasia considerations?
60. What ethical dilemmas arise when considering the greater good in euthanasia decisions?