This book is an attempt to explain the complexities of the most controversial issue of the 1980s & 1990s against the historical, legal, religious & cultural background. THE RIGHT TO DIE is the result of objective research into & analysis of a subject that is not only controversial but difficult to define quickly or easily--a person's right to choose to die, whether alone or with the help of another. In 1988 & 1992 attempts in California to change the law to permit physician-assisted suicide of a terminally ill person failed. In 1991 a similar measure failed in Washington State. In THE RIGHT TO DIE, the authors give a complete history of the subject, beginning with Greek & Roman attitudes towards dying. They cover active & passive euthanasia, suicide, mercy killing, & the medical & legal issues, as well as the moral & ethical questions on both sides.