Stephen Hawking says he would consider assisted suicide

Stephen Hawking has dedicated his life to advancing science while suffering from ALS.

He recently revealed in a BBC interview that he would consider assisted suicide under certain circumstances.

Hawking said, "To keep someone alive against their wishes is the ultimate indignity. I would consider assisted suicide only if I were in great pain or felt I had nothing more to contribute but was just a burden to those around me."

The 73-year-old physicist also clarified that at this time he has no such plans, proclaiming, "I am damned if I'm going to die before I have unravelled more of the universe."

Though he certainly has a drive fueling his desire to stay among the living, Hawking does admit that he gets lonely.

He noted many fear approaching him to talk or often don't wait for a response.

Hawking also characterized himself as being shy and thus finds it difficult to converse with people he doesn't know.

The full interview, which has been described as 'impressively honest,' can be seen in an upcoming BBC program, which airs on June 15th.

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