1.08 - Construction of Death

Question 1

What are the stages in verifying brain death?

Answer 1

No evidence of brain function over a period of time
Loss of function not attributable to something else
Brain injury sufficient to account for loss of function
No reflex action (cough, gag, pupil/eye movement)
No attempt to breathe when taken off respirator (this is a stimulus to breathe)
Repeat after 24 hours

Question 2

Discuss the cultural difference between Japan and Western societies in regards to the location of death.

Answer 2

Japan:
First transplant surgery, surgeon was placed in double murder charge.
Valorisation of nature.
Death a social event
Cultural attitudes to spirit and physical wholeness
Gift giving: reciprocity

Western:
First transplant surgeon regarded as a hero
Valorisation of control of nature
Death an individual event
Cultural attitudes to spirit and body separateness
Gift giving: abstract Christian notion.