Suicide Pods: ‘Sarco’, the ‘Tesla of Death’ set to roll out in Switzerland
KAKALI DAS

How are we heading towards a dystopian world?
Technology can both amaze and horrify us. This news leans towards the latter—the horrific side. Recently, a new product has entered the market: a “suicide pod.”
It is exactly what it sounds like—a pod designed to assist suicides. This futuristic-looking contraption releases nitrogen gas once a person climbs into it, eliminating oxygen, and within minutes, the person will die. All of this comes at the cost of just $20. It epitomizes the very definition of dystopia.

Understandably, the pod has faced severe backlash, with widespread calls for its ban. However, the makers remain undeterred and are moving forward with plans to launch the suicide pod in Switzerland.
This is “Sarco,” often referred to as the Tesla of euthanasia. To the unversed, ‘Euthanasia” is the practice of ending the life of a patient to limit the patient’s suffering. The word “euthanasia” itself comes from the Greek words “eu” (good) and “thanatos” (death).
It has been dubbed as such because it is essentially a suicide pod. In simpler but more stark terms, it’s a portable machine designed for self-administered death.
This cutting-edge 3D-printed machine was first revealed in 2019. Since then, it has been surrounded by controversy, as might be anticipated.
However, the controversy has intensified recently, as the machine is set to be put into use for the first time.
The details are still unclear, but the pod is expected to be launched in Switzerland and will be operational in the coming months.
But, why is Switzerland the chosen country for its launch? It has been chosen because assisted suicide has been legal there since the 1940s, and there are two main requirements. First, the person seeking assisted suicide must pass a psychiatric evaluation. Second, the procedure must be carried out by someone without a direct interest in the person’s death. The process is relatively straightforward, with minimal oversight.
This makes Switzerland one of the top options for assisted suicide, not only for its own citizens but also internationally. The country is often referred to as the “suicide tourism magnet,” making it a clear choice for those seeking such services.
What sets the Pod apart from other methods of euthanasia is that, once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, it allows a person to end their life without the need for medical supervision. The creator claims that it will decrease reliance on doctors.

Philip Nitschke, the inventor of Sarco, explains: “They will enter the capsule and close the lid. They will then answer a few questions to confirm their awareness of what they are doing. If they agree, they will press a button inside, which will trigger the generator to produce a large quantity of nitrogen, removing all oxygen from the capsule.”
Once the button is pressed, death is expected to occur within approximately 5 minutes. The Pod is primarily designed for individuals with serious physical illnesses and is relatively affordable, costing $20, making it accessible.
However, this device, designed to facilitate suicide, has sparked significant controversy and ethical debates. The idea has faced more discomfort than praise and has received severe backlash. While, some argue it provides a dignified option for those suffering, others are deeply concerned about its potential misuse and the message it sends about the value of life.
“This a solution that we really don’t understand. It seems totally inappropriate to us. The way we work using Pentobarbital, which is prescribed by a doctor, which allows people to die gently, surrounded by their loved ones, friends and children is death that is so much more serene than shutting oneself up alone in a Sarco, even if that Sarco happens to be facing the matter horn” – Jean-Jacques Bise, Medically Assisted Suicide Professional

Authorities have suggested that the device should be banned and called for severe punishment for those assisting with the suicide and the inventor. Critics have labelled him “Dr. Death.”
The ethical implications of such a device are profound. Critics argue that it commodifies death and could be exploited by vulnerable individuals. Additionally, the ease of access and the low cost may lead to an increase in impulsive suicides, raising concerns among mental health professionals and ethicists alike. The debate continues as society grapples with the moral and legal ramifications of this chilling innovation.
The inventor remains firm in his position, stating, “It’s not just a medical privilege for the very sick; it is a fundamental human right. If you’ve been given the precious gift of life, you should be able to choose when to relinquish it.”
So, the logic is to “return the gift.” However, one thing prospective users should be aware of is that once a decision is made, it cannot be reversed. Once you press that button, there is no turning back.

19-07-2024
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