12711. EUTHANASIA AS A SOCIAL POLICY. This report makes the case for the legalization of euthanasia (mercy-killings) within a strictly controlled and monitored system. Traces the history of euthanasia and changing social attitudes towards mercy killing with the advancement in life-sustaining medical technologies. Recommends a framework of standards and guidelines similar to that adopted in the Netherlands and cautions that the decision to invoke the euthanasia option must always be individualized. 15 pages, 23 footnotes, 18 bibliographic sources.