Now that you have done some preliminary research into this issue, I think you are ready to really dig in your heels and get ready for the debate. Remember we are going to be debating the question “Are there any conditions under which it would be ok to buy and sell organs?”

Your Task
You need to analyze each position in the debate, remember there are two:

• The Negative Position: No, there are no conditions under which we can allow the sale of organs.


• The Affirmative Position: Yes, there are conditions under which we can allow the sale of organs. This position will also require you to spell out what you believe those conditions are and why.

You’ll analyze these arguments by looking at three key points:

• Who is affected by the position? Be sure to consider both positive and negative effects. Who was affected by position (e.g. patients, donors, families, hospitals, etc)? It might be helpful to look back at the articles you reviewed.


• What are the short-term and long-term consequences of the position? Again, there may be positive and negative consequences for each affected party, e.g., donors, families, hospitals? Think broadly. If the buying and selling of organs were legalized in the United States, how would this affect the case of Mr. N? How would it affect the Brazilian donor and his family? Those waiting on the UNOS list in the US, etc.?


• What ethical principles are at stake? Think back to the ethical principles you’ve dealt with when weighing in on other ethical dilemmas. Which ethical principles are being upheld and which are being violated for each group affected by the position? The problem of buying and selling organs is, first and foremost, an ethical issue. By identifying the applicable ethical principles in each position you will ground your argument in ethics. During the debate you will need to be clear about what you believe the ethical problem is, for whom, and how your position addresses each problem.

I have attached a template to help you organize your analysis of both positions. I have also provided the Ethical Principles for Consideration document you have referred to in previous cases. I thought it might be a helpful reference on this case as well.

As you work, keep in mind that you will be assigned a position for the debate. Strong debaters have a thorough understanding of both sides of an argument, so that they can anticipate what the other sides’ arguments will be. Be sure that you give equal consideration to each position, regardless of your personal opinions. You can’t make a thoughtful decision on this matter until you understand both sides of the argument. I look forward to reviewing your analyses.

Thanks,
Chris Jones, M.D.
Chair, Ethics Committee
Lincoln Regional Medical Center