Americans have consistently maintained their support for euthanasia in recent decades. Prior to that, as far back as 1947, Americans were not in favor.

Although religious convictions often play a large role in one’s support or opposition, the way the act of euthanasia is worded affects Americans’ views on it, underscoring the issue’s sensitivity. Life-ending scenarios are real for many Americans and their loved ones. And while the majority of Americans clearly support euthanasia — a fairly rare moral issue for which there is widespread support — that support is not unanimous. This is a reminder that these divisions play out in family decision-making every day.