Drawing on in-depth interviews with people who were dying and with the physicians who cared for them, as well as on his own experiences as a physician, Dr. Charles McKhann argues persuasively that physician-assisted dying should be made legally available under certain circumstances. This book is written for all those who are concerned about how their life may end - and who wish to die without unnecessary suffering. Dr. Charles F. McKhann discusses many aspects of physician-assisted dying and explains why he thinks it should be made legally available under certain circumstances. Dr. McKhann presents the case for rational suicide, comparing a failed suicide attempt in the United States with a planned death in the Netherlands and illustrating the differences in approach and attitudes. He describes the forms of physician assistance already taking place and acknowledges the physician's personal and professional concerns. And he reflects on relevant religious, moral, legal, and public-policy issues that are currently so widely debated. His thought-provoking book is a valuable resource not only for the general public but also for compassionate physicians who attend people with fatal diseases and for lawmakers who strive for understanding and courage in dealing with this new challenge.