Author: Paulami Dam, Junior Research Fellow
In Switzerland, a gadget named Sarco that offers dignified death in less than one minute has passed legal scrutiny. Although the Swiss constitution does not explicitly permit voluntary death, it does make it illegal if "selfish motivations" are demonstrated in the act [1]. Sarco's formal worldwide premiere was staged in the Palazzo Michiel, Canale Grande, Venice, during Venice Design 2019. On April 14, 2018, a complete woodwork model of Sarco was exhibited first at Amsterdam Funeral Expo [2].
CONCEPT OF HAPPY DEATH
Sarco was developed as a large capsule-like device that might generate a fast reduction of internal oxygen levels, simultaneously keeping a low carbon dioxide level. Founders argued it as a condition for a serene and pleasant death. According to the company, the happy death lies in the concept of 'a sense of occasion’ or ‘travel to a new destination’ [2].
HOW TO WELCOME A HAPPY DEATH?
To
operate Sarco, no greater skill is required. No drugs or medical interventions
are associated with its operation. Researchers are expecting to utilize eye
movement or voice commands to activate the device [2].
 |
| SARCO: THE DEATH MACHINE (Image courtesy: Exit International) |
WHO IS THE MASTERMIND OF THE DEATH MACHINE?
And the answer is Exit International. It is a non-profit public company. Exit International, previously known as the Voluntary Euthanasia Research Foundation, was established in the year of 1997 by Dr Philip Nitschke. They have designated themselves as a ‘voluntary assisted dying organization’. If you visit the official website of the company a glorifying line will welcome you: WHERE ART MEETS ITS END… If you scroll down into their about information, you will surely halt for rereading their motto [2].
Exit is unique in the right to die movement in that the organisation sees a ‘good death’ as a fundamental human right, rather than a medical privilege reserved only for the terminally ill. At Exit, we believe that it is a fundamental human right for every adult of sound mind, to be able to plan for the end of their life in a way that is reliable, peaceful & at a time of their choosing.