The Thomistic Institute The Ethics of Organ Transplantation | Prof. Steven Jensen
Nov 13, 2024
In this enlightening discussion, Professor Steven J. Jensen, an expert in bioethics and moral psychology, tackles the complex ethical dilemmas surrounding organ transplantation. He offers a historical overview, shedding light on the implications of brain death as a criterion for organ donation. Jensen delves into the controversies of consent laws, the potential exploitation of vulnerable populations, and the alarming issues of organ trafficking, particularly in places like China. His insights provoke a deeper understanding of the moral landscape in this critical field.
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Brain Death Adoption
- Brain death was adopted quickly for organ transplantation.
- The ethical implications were not thoroughly considered until after it was widely used.
Organism Integrity
- The integrity of the organism argument justifies brain death.
- It posits that a body without a functioning brain, even with living organs, isn't a living person.
TK's Case
- TK, diagnosed as brain dead at five, lived for 21 more years, developing normally.
- This case challenges the notion that brain death equals death.