First Article Review (Political/Social):
Allow the sale of human organs?
Source: The Straits Times, 18 January 2007;
http://newshub.nus.edu.sg/news/0701/pdf/Organs-ST-18Jan-pH1.pdf
“The sale of human organs.” What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you read this? In the past, I would've been extremely disgusted at the very thought of trading cold, hard cash for one's organ. However, what are the reasons for people supporting this "unethical trade"? Are they actually valid?
There are actually many ideals in allowing the sale of human organs. In my opinion, the prospect of money would definitely encourage more people to step out and donate their organs while supposedly, “no one will be harmed in the process but a life could be saved” and this is what all of us want.
Moreover, the donation of human organs had already been on-going for a long time and saving people’s lives has always been the sole principle for why people are willing to do so. As quoted from Associate Professor Lee Wei Ling, “As long as donors are aware if the risks and money makes them more willing to give up their organs to save lives, what’s wrong with that?”
Being pro-life, I completely agree with Ms. Lee that more lives could be saved through this. However, what could be the possible negative implications if this is allowed? Should they be neglected then?
As quoted from Professor Alastair Campbell, “Treating the body as a saleable asset is regarded by many to be morally wrong”. Personally, I believe that it is ethically unacceptable and believe that there will definitely be cases of abuse by people who sell their organs to pay off their debts or, in the case of drug addicts, to feed their addiction to drugs if this act is allowed in our society.
Some people say that ethics is just irrelevant in the face of death. Being a healthy person, I must admit that I do not completely understand the pain of those who are undergoing the suffering and torture. Who knows? Perhaps if I was disease-stricken, I may also be willing to use money to “buy” my freedom from the illness.
However, despite trying to empathize with patients who are suffering, I still believe that the possible trading of another individual’s health for one's benefit is wrong. Many people argue that a kidney donor can still lead a normal life, but have they thought of this possibly jeopardizing his or her health? All in all, there will still be risks in every operation. In my opinion, it is unfair and unjustly to make someone suffer in your place, just because of a "monetary transaction".
In conclusion, I do agree with the ideals in wanting to allow the sale of human organs, and would certainly want more lives to be saved. However, upon weighing the cons of the possible disintegration of social integrity, the exploitation of the poor and harm inflicted on more people by allowing such practices, I would still stay steadfast to my belief that the sale of human organs should not be allowed in
So, what say you?
Labels: English Blog Article
