| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of Applied Ethics |
| Editors | R. Chadwick, S. Holm |
| Place of Publication | Kidlington |
| Publisher | Elsevier BV |
| Pages | 288-296 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| Edition | 2nd |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Abstract
This article examines key ethical issues involved in organ donation and transplantation. A brief initial overview is provided of general ethical issues that arise in relation to deceased and living organ donation, as well as xenotransplantation. Thereafter, the role played by the gift of life metaphor in underpinning the system of organ donation as well as ethical dilemmas that are raised by markets in organs are examined. Finally, specific issues that have given rise to particularly contentious ethical debate in recent years are addressed, including the use of opt-out systems of organ donation, organ donor exchange, and conditional organ donation.