Suicide is a protocol, a pill, a technical problem to solve.

The Peaceful Pill Handbook is a manifesto and textbook on suicide. The peaceful pill, itself, is an ideal and a limit, an object, a choice, an action and effect. The peaceful pill is defined as “a pill or drink, taken pain-free at a time of a person’s choosing; a pill that is orally ingested and available to all elderly folks of sound mind and to those suffering serious illness.”[1]

The peaceful pill enjoys a distinguished, as well as controversial heritage. Hemlock is the most famous forerunner. A model of instruction is reported in the Phaedo. Says Socrates: “Well, my good man, you are an expert at this; what must one do?” And the reply: “Just drink it and walk around until your legs feel heavy, then lie down and it will act of itself.”[2]

Cyanide and pentobarbital, known as Nembutal, also have a notable history and promise a peaceful, dignified, pain-free death.

In 1996, Philip Nitschke, co-author of the Handbook, invented the Deliverance Machine: a combination of computer interface and a system of delivery as deliverance. The inaugural of the Deliverance Machine led Bob Dent, afflicted by cancer, through a protocol.

Question: Are you aware that if you go ahead to the last screen and press the ‘yes’ button you will be given a lethal dose of medication and die? — press Yes or No.

Question: Are you certain you understand that if you proceed and press the ‘yes’ button on the next screen you will die? — press Yes or No.

Question: In 15 seconds you will be given a lethal injection: press Yes to proceed.*

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[1] The Peaceful Pill Handbook, 44.
[2] Phaedo 17a-b
*The final question seems a bit problematic. Perhaps work is needed to fine tune the protocol.