LITERATURE MATRIX

Author Concept Role Antecedent Consequence Theories Theoretical gaps

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1. Concept

This article describes how the idea of allowing lawbreakers to give organs in
exchange for a lighter sentence raises the issue of decision-making under stress.
The author asks us to decide whether or not it is ethically acceptable to exploit
convicts by reducing their sentences in return for organ donations. The author gives
reasons from both sides of the issue, with detractors claiming that the programme
places unreasonably high demands on prisoners and breaks federal regulations that
forbid the sale of human organs or their acquisition for "valuable consideration." The
bill's defenders argue that it addresses health problems regarding organ donation as
well as the over-incarceration of Black and Hispanic individuals.

2. Role

According to the articles, it is the responsibility of the reader to comprehend

how the proposed legislation allowing for prisoner organ donation in exchange for a
reduced sentence may affect the moral and legal concerns surrounding that
proposal. Concerns about the potential of coercion and exploitation of prisoners who
would feel under pressure to donate organs in order to gain their freedom have been
highlighted by the proposal. The legislation raises concerns about how jails can
properly care for the health of inmates who face surgery to donate organs and poses
legal and ethical issues because it violates federal laws that ban the trade in of
human organs. Despite the need for live-saving organs, critics argue that reducing a
prison sentence in exchange for organs is not only unethical but also violates federal
law. The role of readers is to weigh both sides of the debate and understand the
potential implications of such a policy on inmate health and societal values.

3. Antecedent

The article states that a Massachusetts legislation that would enable prisoners
to give their organs and bone marrow in order to have their sentences reduced has
generated controversy due to ethical and legal issues. Some contend that it is
unlawful and against federal law to commute a sentence in exchange for organs.
One of the bill's backers, however, asserts that because Black and Brown
communities are more likely to need organ donation, the plan addresses health
inequalities impacting these groups of people. The article also discusses the benefits
of acting ethically and legally, using the South Carolina voluntary organ donation
programme for inmates, which did not reward participants with shorter terms. Organ
donation was only permitted for family members of federal prisoners.

4. Consequence

The importance of treating vulnerable populations with respect and dignity is

pointed out in this article. The difficulties with organ donation programmes are
explored, along with how they might fall back on the weak. The article encourages
readers to reflect carefully on the ethical issues raised by organ donation and to
support laws that advances equity and equality in healthcare. The essay emphasises
the importance of coming up with other solutions without harming disadvantaged
populations while also illuminating the challenges of dealing with the
organ shortages.

5. Theories

The article provides an explanation of deontological ethics, a moral theory

introduced by Immanuel Kant. This theory asserts that an action's morality should
not be based on its consequences, but on the intention behind it. An act is morally
right if it is done out of a sense of duty or obligation, rather than for the sake of its
outcomes. According to Kant, moral duties are universal and absolute, which means
that they are applicable to all rational beings regardless of their personal desires or
situations. Therefore, individuals must always act in accordance with moral duties,
such as telling the truth, respecting the autonomy of others, and not treating people
solely as a means to an end. This theory highlights the significance of rationality and
moral principles in ethical decision-making, rather than subjective emotions or
desires.

6. Theoretical gaps

The article makes note of the fact that there hasn't been a thorough
investigation of the legislation's possible effects. Further research must be done in
order to fully comprehend the advantages and disadvantages of encouraging organ
donation in this way. The paper also emphasizes the necessity to look for substitute
solutions that do not take advantage of weak populations. The paper thus
emphasizes the theoretical flaw in the absence of a thorough investigation of the
ethical and legal ramifications of the legislation as proposed and the need for
substitute solutions that place a priority on human dignity and agency.

Leblanc, S. (2023, February 08). Organs in exchange for freedom? Bill raises ethical
concerns. Retrieve from https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-massachusetts-bill-
hispanic-boston-b2278576.html