Comment by cannonpr

The reality of our society is that many will meet their end alone and in poverty. Is it so different from parts of our history, where the old chose to take a long walk into the wilderness before the indignity of what follows? I’m not sure. We like to pretend our society is much richer and more capable than it is—that we can take care of everyone. Maybe we can, but I have my doubts. In cases where we fail, I think we should at least allow people the dignity of choosing their own exit. I don’t think it makes much difference whether their suffering comes from a disease of their body or a disease of society. In the short term, both can be inevitable and excruciating.