The Least Worst Death

Margaret Battin is a philosopher who has brought more clarity to thinking about the different ways cultures deal with death than anyone in the field. Not only this, she has taken the trouble to look at the actual processes of dying with a clear view of the issues at stake both for populations and for individuals. Once one realizes that many deaths won't be "cakewalks" (excuse the expression), one can see why she chose the title "The Least Worst Death" for her book. Actually a huge proportion of deaths are from long-term degenerative diseases; an equally large proportion occur in hospitals or long-term care facilities; and dignified is perhaps the last word one would use to describe the "exit strategy" most Americans will be forced to choose from unless the medical profession and state laws change. With a great sensitivity to the cultural factors that ought to shape choices governing public policy in the area of death and dying, she argues for a "cultural fit" between public policy and historical and social practices. If one plans to read only a few books on the topic of death and dying, this one would have to be among the top 2-3 books on one's list.