What characterizes voluntary euthanasia?

Voluntary euthanasia is characterized by the act of ending someone's life in a painless manner, specifically when that individual has made a clear request for it, usually due to suffering from unbearable pain or terminal illness. This concept emphasizes the importance of consent; the person wishing for euthanasia must willingly express their desire for it, given the circumstances of their suffering. This distinguishes voluntary euthanasia from other practices, as it is fundamentally rooted in the autonomy and wishes of the individual experiencing distress.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects that do not align with the principles of voluntary euthanasia. For instance, providing means to commit suicide without consent disregards the requirement for the individual's informed agreement. Similarly, beliefs about the soul's eternal nature or taking life against someone's wishes do not pertain to the voluntary aspect of euthanasia, which is centered on the explicit desires and consent of the suffering individual.