Biomedical Ethics and Organ Donation
1. Read Chapter 8: Biomedical Issues and Donations and research 2 other sources (include these in your reference section).
2. Discussion Questions:
Provide arguments for and against each of the following basing your arguments on relevant research:
a. National legislation legitimizing mercy killing.
b. National legislation legitimizing the selling of human organs.
c. The establishment of national registration of live donors.
Note this question is a 3-part question. Please answer all 3 parts, basing most of your answers on research.
3. Pose your question.
4. Answer another student’s question.
Posts must be made in the discussion forum by 11:55 pm on Thursday, April 10.
Keep all 3 parts of this assignment in one post. To receive full credit, you must have answered the discussion question, posted a question, and answered another student’s question. Since your answers should be based primarily on research, you should be listing your references.
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What are the arguments for and against mercy killing legislation?,
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What are the arguments for and against legalizing the sale of human organs?,
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What are the arguments for and against establishing a national registry of live donors?,
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What is your own question related to biomedical ethics?,
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How would you answer another student’s related question?
Comprehensive Answer:
a. Mercy Killing (Euthanasia)
For: Supporters argue that legalizing mercy killing upholds individual autonomy and relieves unbearable suffering in terminally ill patients. Studies show that in nations like the Netherlands and Canada, strict regulations prevent abuse while providing dignified end-of-life choices (Smith & Cohen, 2023).
Against: Opponents claim it violates the sanctity of life and could lead to coercion or misuse, particularly among vulnerable populations. Ethically, many argue that improved palliative care should replace euthanasia as a compassionate alternative.
b. Selling of Human Organs
For: Proponents argue that a regulated system could reduce organ shortages and save thousands of lives. Economic incentives may encourage more donors, as seen in Iran’s kidney market model (Cherry, 2021).
Against: Critics warn that it could exploit the poor, commodify the human body, and create unethical inequalities in healthcare. Many bioethicists advocate for altruistic donation systems to maintain moral and social integrity.
c. National Registration of Live Donors
For: A national registry could increase transparency, facilitate organ matching, and protect donor rights through proper medical tracking. It promotes safety and efficiency in organ allocation.
Against: Privacy concerns and potential misuse of personal health data are significant drawbacks. Some also fear that mandatory registration could pressure individuals to donate.
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