Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 19, 2026
Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
The Legacy: An Interview with Ryan Farnsworth
Abstract:
This paper recounts the author's conversations with Ryan Farnsworth, a 30-year-old ALS patient who consented to be interviewed for the purpose of improving communication between physicians and patients. Under the California End of Life Option (ELOA), the patient had been prescribed medication that would allow him to end his life at a time of his choosing. He describes coping with the challenges of the illness, how he will make the decision when to take the drugs and what he hopes will be his legacy.
Related Concept Videos
Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who...
14:42Biology of Microbial Communities - Interview
10:35Studies of Bacterial Chemotaxis Using Microfluidics - Interview
29:13Microbial Communities in Nature and Laboratory - Interview
21:02Investigating the Microbial Community in the Termite Hindgut - Interview
19:50Interview: Protein Folding and Studies of Neurodegenerative Diseases

