Below is a sample outline and a well-developed 5-paragraph argumentative essay in APA 7th ed. titled “Euthanasia Should be Legalized.” This sample is intended to help college students write better essays.
5-Paragraph Argumentative Essay on Euthanasia
Sample 5-Paragraph Argumentative Essay Outline on Legalizing Euthanasia
- Introduction:
- Hook – Start with a compelling statistic or a thought-provoking question related to euthanasia to capture the reader’s attention.
- Background Information – Provide a brief overview of what euthanasia is and its current legal status in various countries.
- Thesis Statement – Clearly state your position: “This essay argues in favor of legalizing euthanasia as a compassionate and autonomous choice for individuals facing unbearable suffering. The discussion will cover three main points: (1) individual autonomy, (2) relief from pain and suffering, and (3) safeguards to prevent abuse.”
- Body Paragraphs:
- Individual Autonomy
- Argument: Autonomy and Personal Choice – Discuss how individuals have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including when and how they die.
- Supporting Evidence – Provide examples and cases where individuals have expressed their wish to end their lives to avoid further suffering.
- Rebuttal – Address potential counterarguments, such as concerns about individuals being influenced or coerced.
- Relief from Pain and Suffering
- Argument: Compassion and Alleviation of Suffering – Explain how euthanasia can be a compassionate response to relieve unbearable physical and emotional pain.
- Supporting Evidence – Present studies and real-life examples that illustrate the suffering experienced by patients with terminal illnesses.
- Rebuttal – Address concerns about the role of palliative care and whether it can adequately address suffering.
- Safeguards to Prevent Abuse
- Argument 1. Legalization with Regulations – Discuss how legalizing euthanasia with strict regulations and safeguards can prevent abuse and ensure patient consent.
- Supporting Evidence – Provide examples of countries or states where euthanasia is legal and regulated, along with their success in safeguarding the process.
- Rebuttal – Address concerns about the potential for mistakes, misjudgments, or the possibility of involuntary euthanasia.
- Conclusion
- Restate Thesis Statement – Summarize your argument in favor of legalizing euthanasia.
- Summarize Main Points – Recap the three main points discussed in the body paragraphs: individual autonomy, relief from pain and suffering, and safeguards.
- Final Thoughts – Offer a closing statement that emphasizes the importance of providing individuals with the choice to end their suffering through a legalized and regulated euthanasia process. Encourage readers to consider the ethical and compassionate aspects of this issue.
