Death, Sex & Money Why Autopsies Are in Decline and Why it Matters
Jan 13, 2026
Dr. Alex Williamson, a forensic and pediatric pathologist, sheds light on the dwindling rates of autopsies, revealing their crucial role in understanding causes of death and providing closure to families. Sam Ashworth, a novelist fascinated by autopsies, discusses the stark contrast between real-life procedures and their TV portrayals, emphasizing the emotional depth involved. Together, they explore how autopsies can uncover overlooked diseases and motivate healthier living, while stressing the importance of restoring respect for these revelations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
First Glimpse Into The Autopsy Lab
- Sam Ashworth describes his first autopsy observation: two naked bodies on tables in a lab.
- He felt initial revulsion turn into fascination and curiosity about rarely seen realities.
Autopsy Is Low-Tech, High-Observation Work
- Autopsies rely more on careful observation and simple tools than on high-tech gear.
- Sam Ashworth notes much of the work is visual and manual: weighing, photographing, and describing organs.
Autopsy Decline Masks Persistent Diagnostic Gaps
- Hospital autopsies have declined because clinicians assume modern imaging and tests make them unnecessary.
- Alex Williamson says diagnostic discrepancy rates still run around 10%, so autopsy remains a key quality tool.
