Life in the UK: According to the Daily Telegraph, Stephen Hawking, a 73-year-old British physicist, recently shared his views on euthanasia in an interview with the BBC. He revealed that he would consider "assisted suicide" when he can no longer contribute to the world and merely becomes a burden to those around him.
Hawking, who suffers from a motor neuron disease that has caused muscle atrophy and paralysis, has publicly supported euthanasia in recent years, asserting that living against one's will is the "greatest insult." In 2013, he stated: "We do not let animals suffer, so why should humans?"
Recently, Hawking was interviewed by BBC host Dara Ó Briain, discussing his views on his life. The program will air on June 15. When asked about his thoughts on "assisted suicide" and under what circumstances he would consider this method, Hawking responded: "I would only consider assisted suicide if I were suffering extreme pain or felt I was no longer contributing to the world, merely a burden to those around me." However, Hawking added: "It would be unforgivable to die without unveiling more mysteries of the universe."
Hawking indicated that he is not currently in pain, but sometimes feels uncomfortable due to his inability to adjust his position. When the host asked if he feels lonely, Hawking admitted that he sometimes feels very lonely because people are hesitant to talk to him or lack the patience to wait for his replies. "I am naturally shy, and sometimes feel exhausted; I find it difficult to start a conversation with unfamiliar people."
Hawking also expressed that his paralysis has caused him to miss out on some opportunities to enjoy family time with his children, stating, "I wish I could swim again. I missed the chance to play with my children when they were young."
It is reported that the full content of this interview with Hawking will be broadcast on BBC One on June 15, which will also include interviews with his daughter, younger son, and students from Cambridge.
