“What an unpleasant subject”—that is often the reaction when someone broaches a matter concerning the end of life. Discussing death is still very much a taboo in society, despite the fact that it is perhaps the most universal theme imaginable: it awaits each and every one of us. We do not have the luxury of choosing between life and death; at best, we may hope to exert some influence over the moment our lives reach their conclusion. Since the introduction of the Dutch ‘Euthanasia Act’, however, this taboo does appear to be losing some of its force. Increasingly, people are seeking ways to take an active role in shaping their own end of life, rather than waiting passively—and often in suffering—for it to arrive. There is a growing appetite for open and honest conversations on this subject. This book aims to serve as a resource for such discussions. Terms central to end-of-life matters are clearly defined and placed within context. The book also presents a variety of viewpoints from dozens of interviewed experts, as well as from citizen advocates of the so-called ‘autonomous path’ (de autonome route). Through this approach, those who wish to exercise greater control over their own end of life will, one hopes, gain a better understanding of the risks such autonomy may involve. Equally, professionals may become more attuned to the intensity and legitimacy of the desire many ‘ordinary’ citizens have to gain more say over how and when their lives should come to an end.