I know this is a complicated issue, which combines for some religion, philosophy, ethics, a view of individual rights,. etc.
Overall it seems, as most would assume, that it depends on the rational behind the suicide, as the key factor in its acceptability.
In one poll 7 out of 10 Americans were found to support physician assisted euthenasia. These numbers seem to represent most studies I have seen on the topic.
One’s religious activies seem to be a factor in their support or lack of support
The more frequently an American attends religious services, the less likely he or she is to support euthanasia. Less than half (48%) of those who frequent their places of worship weekly are likely to support the idea of a doctor "ending a patient's life by some painless means," compared with three in four Americans who attend services nearly weekly (74%) and 82% of those who go less often.
However the answer to the question varies on how the question is phrased and what the motivation to the suicide is.
When asked if suicde is “morally acceptable” the responses are still low, under 20 percent, but there has been a slight increase in this response over time and 12 percent of people in another poll do not think it is important for the US to invest in suicide prevention.
So my question for you tonight….when, if ever, is suicde acceptable?