Euthanasia is the practice of voluntarily having a medically-assisted death. It is illegal in most countries. Euthanasia is a controversial subject, not only because there are many different moral dilemmas associated with it, but also in what constitutes its definition. At the extreme ends of disagreement, advocates say euthanasia, also known as physician aid in dying, is a merciful method of death. At the other end are opponents of euthanasia, who may consider this method as a form of murder. Euthanasia can be conducted in various ways. In order to distinguish certain methods, more specific terminology may be used when discussing euthanasia. Euthanasia by Definition Euthanasia may be conducted with consent - voluntary euthanasia - or without consent - involuntary euthanasia. Since involuntary euthanasia is conducted without an individual's specifically given acquiescence, in the opinion of some this equates in