Not-so-exquisite corpses

NPR commentator Andrei Codrescu recently took in the plastinated corpses at "Bodies... The Exhibition" and found them a bit disconcerting. "Bodies..." is a knock-off of the famous Body Worlds exhibit that's been touring for some time. (Body Worlds is the subject of AJOB's March-April cover package.) And while these exhibits often prompt concerns about dignity, Codrescu bypasses that discussion and instead comments on the depressive effect the corpses have on the viewer. Their lack of life seems to drain something from him, leaving him cold. Codrescu recovers, though, with the help of a different kind of exhibition.
-Greg Dahlmann

posted May 4, 2007 | link |

contribute a comment

Comments have been closed for this post.

what is this?

A 'Nature Top 50' science blog by the editors, staff and friends of The American Journal of Bioethics. Science writes: "To follow the latest twists in ... science stories with social impact, dive into this Web log"

The original story behind this blog

What people are saying about blog.bioethics.net

recently on blog.bioethics.net

Is Hope a Culprit in Cancer Clinical Trials?

A recent study conducted by Emory University School of Medicine found that therapeutic misconception is alive and well in Phase I cancer research. According to... (more)

Gingrich on IVF: Bad for Families, Bad for Bioethics

Scientists, reproductive specialists and andrologists had better prepare. If Newt Gingrich has his way (and wins the Presidency), he will have a whole new world... (more)

Canadians have Bieber Fever...For Organ Donation

Yes, it's true. Bieber Fever has spread far and wide. But it isn't just tweens who are following the pop star, Justin Bieber's, every move.... (more)

Caplan: Say No to Sterilization, Forced Abortion

Art Caplan discusses a troubling case regarding a 32-year-old pregnant woman known as "Mary Moe" who is pregnant for the third time and who suffers... (more)

Rallying Around Amelia: A Debate on Disability

The blogosphere and the airwaves are filled with indignation regarding what has happened to Amelia Rivera, a three year old who has a rare genetic... (more)