Analysis of "Organ Sales Will Save Lives"

                In the essay “Organ Sales Will Save Lives” by Joanna MacKay, kidney failure is the main topic. In her thesis, MacKay states that, “Governments should not ban the sale of human organs; they should regulate it.” This thesis is supported by one main reason: it will save lives. MacKay also states that with the legal selling of organs, more people will be willing to give up their kidneys. This is one way the selling of organs will save lives. People in third world countries are extremely willing to sell their kidneys because they need the money. MacKay points out that there is a black market for selling kidneys because it is illegal to sell organs in many countries. The broker who arranges the sale, takes advantage of uneducated poor people who are in desperate need of money, only paying them around $,1,000 for a kidney.

                MacKay’s essay is well written and organized. She clearly states her thesis in the beginning of her essay and gives valid reasons to support her opinion with sources in the body paragraphs. The essay also includes opposing views; for example, this quote from Pope John Paul II: “the selling of organs is morally wrong and violates ‘the dignity of the human person’.” MacKay defends this idea by saying that “We have a responsibility to protect and help those less fortunate…” In MacKay’s conclusion, she restates her thesis and asks a rhetorical question: “Is it moral to sentence thousands to unnecessary death?”