This is an original contribution to the much debated area of the value that we should place on human life. With the euthanasia issue highlighted in the public arena this book argues for a non-absolutist highest value on life ethic and how that fits with society's current emphasis on individual autonomy. By the use of everyday examples the impact of placing a high value on life is explored. It will be useful for students of ethics, nursing and medicine and those engaged in the public debate on euthanasia.

Acknowledgement. 1. In the Beginning. 2.The Definition of Death. 3. Death Relative to Life. 4. Autonomy and Life or Death Decisions. 5. Slippery Slopes and Life and Death. 6. Limited Resources Limiting Life? 7. Future Ethics. Endnotes. Index.