Richard Epstein's 'Thinking The Unthinkable: Organ Sales'

To Sell or Not to Sell In “Thinking the Unthinkable: Organ Sales,” published in The Boston Globe on July 19, 2003 by Richard A. Epstein, he discusses a major problem in the health and wellbeing of people in the United States, the shortage of organs. He also brings up a solid reasoning to legalize the sales of organs to help get people off the waiting list and living health lives. He points out that we praise people that donate them, but if the party was to receive compensation people would be more apt to part with their organs. Many people have heard urban legends about people waking up in a strange room with a scar and something missing. That is because there is a shortage of useable organs so they are worth a pretty penny. Which leads us to 40,000 people on a list for just a kidney and many more in need of a different organ, according to Epstein’s article. Mr. Epstein has provided us with the statistical fact that is easily believed because we hear about people getting and receiving organs. Also, I have witnessed people walking in the Rose Parade telling their story for millions to see advocating for more people to donate to help save lives. I also …show more content…
However, Epstein disagrees. He believes opening a market up will slow down the black-market. For his reasoning, there would be more paperwork and the donor and recipient must pass all the test for a viable transfer. I would agree that legalizing sale could slow down the black-market trade there will still be one just not as prevalent. The donors that do not pass the required testing will look for other means to obtain money, thus the black market. Also, if the government allows for legal sales they should bring in third parties to make sure everything is held accountable to the highest standards. This will assist to make sure no one is cheated or missing an organ they didn’t want to leave their