Should the Newly Dead be Used to Help the Living? An Issue in Our Time
Every culture's attitude and treatment of the bodies of those who have died manifests its understanding of the meaning of life and death . The late medieval period faced the question of the use of cadavers for education and research. Today society is struggling with the issue of determining the criterion of death especially in relation to organ donation. Within this context a new question is emerging. What is the ethical response to the newly dead who could be sustained on support systems for the promotion of social goods? It is possible, or projected to be possible, to keep the bodies of persons functioning indefinitely through artificial means after they have been pronounced dead. This practice could benefit others through organ and tissue donation, research, and education. Should this activity be promoted or should it be halted before it becomes common practice? Would such a practice enhance or detract from humane consideration of others? In order to contribute to the ethical response to these questions, this paper will discuss who fits in the category of neomorts, how they could contribute to the well being of others, what values are at risk and what conditions ought