A Clash of Religion and Bioethics Complicates Organ Donation in Israel
In The New York Times, Kevin Sack reports that Jewish beliefs regarding mortality and resurrection have cemented Israel’s status as the developed nation with the lowest rate of deceased organ donations—even as Israelis play an enormous role in the global illegal organ trade. While influential Orthodox leaders condemn organ donation, many Israelis push for altruistic living donations. Some are even considering compensation for those who donate organs—an option that tests Israel’s religious and political policies—in an effort to destroy the black market.