Please, please don't read any further until you are fully aware of what 'Body World' is. I know headings such as this are often used to 'lure' people to read farther - but honestly, this is a very sensitive subject and while I find the science of it fascinating, I myself have mixed feelings about other aspects of it.
'Real Body World' is "in your face science" - with life-like settings, created by using [b]real human bodies(a plastination technique has been used on the real bodies for preservation) "for instruction and education".[/b]
The Science World very near our home is hosting 'Body Worlds 3' for the next few months - some feel it would be a great thing to see and a great 'science class' for students - others are repulsed.
http://www.mytelus.com/news/article.do?pag...043&lid=hp2
http://www.scienceworld.ca/bodyworlds/index.html
Full Version: 'real Body World'
Education is one thing (ie take them to schools and colleges for biology and anatomy classes). but this just feels wrong its like an art show of bodies.
Well, that is nothing compared to a place here in the US called the Body Farm or something like that.
It's a farm where police, officials, and other entities send dead bodies to this farm, and wht he has to do is let these bodies stay out in all conditions you can think of. The reason for it is that investigators, crime scene investigators, etc,,, can see the effect of what happens to a body if....... for example:
flies eat off of it
other animals eat off of it.. and which ones won't
how long will it take to decay in this weather, in the water, and then pull parts of the body off, just to see how long the body must have been in the water before the limbs are easily pulled off, when they are found in waters.
etc......
Investigators even bring dead bodies to this farm to help solve crimes, because on his farm, there are many dead bodies that are actually above ground, just rotting away, all in the name of science, investigations, learning, etc....
I saw this on tv about a year or so ago, and it freaked me out. And he's used to the stench of dead people. You couldn't bring him a corpse that will make him shiver.
Oh Well....
It's a farm where police, officials, and other entities send dead bodies to this farm, and wht he has to do is let these bodies stay out in all conditions you can think of. The reason for it is that investigators, crime scene investigators, etc,,, can see the effect of what happens to a body if....... for example:
flies eat off of it
other animals eat off of it.. and which ones won't
how long will it take to decay in this weather, in the water, and then pull parts of the body off, just to see how long the body must have been in the water before the limbs are easily pulled off, when they are found in waters.
etc......
Investigators even bring dead bodies to this farm to help solve crimes, because on his farm, there are many dead bodies that are actually above ground, just rotting away, all in the name of science, investigations, learning, etc....
I saw this on tv about a year or so ago, and it freaked me out. And he's used to the stench of dead people. You couldn't bring him a corpse that will make him shiver.
Oh Well....
AWW that is sick and wrong 
. Why would anyone do that it's crazy!!
. Why would anyone do that it's crazy!!
That was really weird. I was reading the article and caught the picture of the "skin man" in the corner of my eye. It didnt really hit home that it actually was a REAL body holding up his skin!! It looks just like a model.
Which brings me to my point. Whats wrong with simply using models? You can see exactly how the body works from them and they are life like enough. I think Blackspyder is right. It seems more like some sort of twisted art exhibition than a look at the human body.
Which brings me to my point. Whats wrong with simply using models? You can see exactly how the body works from them and they are life like enough. I think Blackspyder is right. It seems more like some sort of twisted art exhibition than a look at the human body.
One thing I will say, I will not be signing up for this! 
There seems to be a fascination to make things seem more and more realistic, this seems like a step further in that department.
If someone knows what this is about and wants to go and see it I don't have a problem with(however I would not go) but it should not be pushed on anyone like a school trip because this is something that is not just an average field trip.
However from what I read the creators of this seem to think there is not as much controversy about it than I believe there really is. How can they be so naive? This is going to be highly controversial!
Oh and the second link just leads to a 404 page.
There seems to be a fascination to make things seem more and more realistic, this seems like a step further in that department.
If someone knows what this is about and wants to go and see it I don't have a problem with(however I would not go) but it should not be pushed on anyone like a school trip because this is something that is not just an average field trip.
However from what I read the creators of this seem to think there is not as much controversy about it than I believe there really is. How can they be so naive? This is going to be highly controversial!
Oh and the second link just leads to a 404 page.
Judging by the horrified comments so far I wonder if perhaps this sort of exhibition is just what our society needs to help us get over our squeamishness and help us come to terms with death and the fact that our bodies are just meat when we die.
What is life and how does it animate this flesh. Is there a spirit? A soul? Have we been too detached from the reality of life and death?
Only our conditioning and societies tabboos cause us to think that a display like this is "wrong"
My only concern would be for the feelings of relatives, but I am certain that none of these bodies would be likely to be of people who had living relatives. Or am I just being hopeful?
Anyway, these are just my thoughts on the matter
What is life and how does it animate this flesh. Is there a spirit? A soul? Have we been too detached from the reality of life and death?
Only our conditioning and societies tabboos cause us to think that a display like this is "wrong"
My only concern would be for the feelings of relatives, but I am certain that none of these bodies would be likely to be of people who had living relatives. Or am I just being hopeful?
Anyway, these are just my thoughts on the matter
QUOTE(Constantine @ Mar 26 2007, 04:32 PM) 
Judging by the horrified comments so far I wonder if perhaps this sort of exhibition is just what our society needs to help us get over our squeamishness and help us come to terms with death and the fact that our bodies are just meat when we die.
What is life and how does it animate this flesh. Is there a spirit? A soul? Have we been too detached from the reality of life and death?
Only our conditioning and societies tabboos cause us to think that a display like this is "wrong"
My only concern would be for the feelings of relatives, but I am certain that none of these bodies would be likely to be of people who had living relatives. Or am I just being hopeful?
Anyway, these are just my thoughts on the matter
What is life and how does it animate this flesh. Is there a spirit? A soul? Have we been too detached from the reality of life and death?
Only our conditioning and societies tabboos cause us to think that a display like this is "wrong"
My only concern would be for the feelings of relatives, but I am certain that none of these bodies would be likely to be of people who had living relatives. Or am I just being hopeful?
Anyway, these are just my thoughts on the matter
I think the question is do we really need this sort of thing? As I said those that know about and want to go to it I don't have a problem with.
Of course a lot of people are going to be squeamish over such a thing, not just because of its nature but because of the strong visuals it gives. It is for many people a nature human reaction, how much can anyone take before it makes them feel sick? It's different for everyone.
Why is it so important for us to see visuals of what our bodies look like after death anyway? I don't see how needing to see something like this is going to help people come to terms with that whole concept as many of the exhibits are based around what the body looks like in general, the difference is these are actual dead bodies and not models.
I merely don't see why it is so very important that dead bodies be used rather than models given the technology we know have. Is a bit more realism worth all of what it takes to do what they're doing?
Why do we need it? Well, perhaps we don't need it. Should it be allowed? Hell, yes! I guess like all exhibitions, people choose to go. I imagine that people who were disturbed by this would choose not to attend.
I think this exhibition is a useful and interesting learning tool. Let's face it, if kids went to this exhibition and all the bodies were artificial it would not have the same impact. They would not feel the same sense of awe and wonder.
It is like when you see a print of the Mona Lisa or the REAL Mona Lisa.
I think this exhibition is a useful and interesting learning tool. Let's face it, if kids went to this exhibition and all the bodies were artificial it would not have the same impact. They would not feel the same sense of awe and wonder.
It is like when you see a print of the Mona Lisa or the REAL Mona Lisa.
QUOTE(Constantine @ Mar 27 2007, 08:18 AM)
Why do we need it? Well, perhaps we don't need it. Should it be allowed? Hell, yes! I guess like all exhibitions, people choose to go. I imagine that people who were disturbed by this would choose not to attend.
I think this exhibition is a useful and interesting learning tool. Let's face it, if kids went to this exhibition and all the bodies were artificial it would not have the same impact. They would not feel the same sense of awe and wonder.
It is like when you see a print of the Mona Lisa or the REAL Mona Lisa.
I think this exhibition is a useful and interesting learning tool. Let's face it, if kids went to this exhibition and all the bodies were artificial it would not have the same impact. They would not feel the same sense of awe and wonder.
It is like when you see a print of the Mona Lisa or the REAL Mona Lisa.
The whole point about kids is are they getting a choice as to whether they go? This shouldn't be forced on anyone!
QUOTE(UrbanChick @ Mar 26 2007, 06:10 PM)
QUOTE(Constantine @ Mar 27 2007, 08:18 AM)
Why do we need it? Well, perhaps we don't need it. Should it be allowed? Hell, yes! I guess like all exhibitions, people choose to go. I imagine that people who were disturbed by this would choose not to attend.
I think this exhibition is a useful and interesting learning tool. Let's face it, if kids went to this exhibition and all the bodies were artificial it would not have the same impact. They would not feel the same sense of awe and wonder.
It is like when you see a print of the Mona Lisa or the REAL Mona Lisa.
The whole point about kids is are they getting a choice as to whether they go? This shouldn't be forced on anyone!
kids pretty much always have a choice on whether or not to attend a school trip, i think.
i think there is very little to be disgusted about - it is the human body. it is what we are. but i understand how loving our bodies doesn't mean we want to know what we would look like peeled open
i wouldn't be to fond of becoming a flesh mannequin when i'm gone. its very interesting for those who would like to go, i would say. but i'm perfectly content with going a regular ole museum of ant farms and fossils.
hmmm, if we werent judging and disaproving, or feeling squeamish, or sick from this exibition then how would we feel?...interested? curious? entertained perhaps? i prefer to feel interested, curious and entertained by exhibitions in life and so therefore i choose to identify with the marvel in the process of this exhibition and noticing the different shapes and concepts behind it with scrutiny, i like that, keeps my brain ticking>>>feeds my esteem>>>inspires me in all realms 
Facing diversity can be a very healthy and productive thing
NICE ONE
nn23
Facing diversity can be a very healthy and productive thing
NICE ONE
nn23
People really do seem to have varied reactions to hearing about the exhibit, but I suspect only those who are truly interested actually go (it's not cheap to attend, either).
I believe that there is actually an overwelming list of people requesting that their bodies be used in these and similar exhibits - and yes, I can only hope that their family members agree with their decision as egad, imagine walking in to one and finding your granny 'standing' there. Eep!
Actually we surprised our our daughter and 9 year old grandson with tickets - and they found it fascinating. Children are now often raised in 'pretend worlds' - that the very idea that those are 'real veins just like we have!' etc has been enough to spark his ongoing interest in biology.
Me? Well, you'd have to drag me kicking and screaming in the door - hoot!
I believe that there is actually an overwelming list of people requesting that their bodies be used in these and similar exhibits - and yes, I can only hope that their family members agree with their decision as egad, imagine walking in to one and finding your granny 'standing' there. Eep!
Actually we surprised our our daughter and 9 year old grandson with tickets - and they found it fascinating. Children are now often raised in 'pretend worlds' - that the very idea that those are 'real veins just like we have!' etc has been enough to spark his ongoing interest in biology.
Me? Well, you'd have to drag me kicking and screaming in the door - hoot!
Hummm, without trying to sound too morbid, it does sound interesting , But I would like to visit this Museum as well http://www.collphyphil.org/mutter.asp , I suspect it has to do with a much lesser degree of whether you watch the nurse draw your blood or look away. (I want to see whats going on )
QUOTE(no one @ Mar 27 2007, 03:15 PM)
Hummm, without trying to sound too morbid, it does sound interesting , But I would like to visit this Museum as well http://www.collphyphil.org/mutter.asp , I suspect it has to do with a much lesser degree of whether you watch the nurse draw your blood or look away. (I want to see whats going on )
Sounds like a medical circus!
So far everyone's first reaction seems to be of revulsion, horror & disgust that this is happening.
I agree with you all, my first reaction is the same. But think of it this way. If these people did not donate their amzing bodies for science how would we learn?
How would our doctors be able to fix our bodies as they can now? How can scientists find cures?
How does our police, detectives and other law inforcements fight crimes and the injustice that your neighbor, husband, wife, children & strangers inflict on living flesh - how do they find your love ones who were dumped or disposed of in the most dispicable way and bring justice?
Remember this isn't something new, human beings have been doing this for a long long time.
Leonardo Da Vinci was a brilliant artist. How do you think his paintings and drawings were so life like and precise? He studied cadavers, he disected etc and new intimately how the body worked!
Many artists worked this way.
And is it not just one more step further from donating your organs when you die, for someone else to have, in the hope that they can live a little longer or have a better quality of life??
You may be against this but our evolution to understand and learn requires us to do what some would call immoral. I have to say to those who have or are going to donate their bodies for the sake of science, bravo, you are a more wellrounded person than I!
Look, its not everyones cup of tea and its certainly not mine, but why condemn those that wish to do this??
I agree with you all, my first reaction is the same. But think of it this way. If these people did not donate their amzing bodies for science how would we learn?
How would our doctors be able to fix our bodies as they can now? How can scientists find cures?
How does our police, detectives and other law inforcements fight crimes and the injustice that your neighbor, husband, wife, children & strangers inflict on living flesh - how do they find your love ones who were dumped or disposed of in the most dispicable way and bring justice?
Remember this isn't something new, human beings have been doing this for a long long time.
Leonardo Da Vinci was a brilliant artist. How do you think his paintings and drawings were so life like and precise? He studied cadavers, he disected etc and new intimately how the body worked!
Many artists worked this way.
And is it not just one more step further from donating your organs when you die, for someone else to have, in the hope that they can live a little longer or have a better quality of life??
You may be against this but our evolution to understand and learn requires us to do what some would call immoral. I have to say to those who have or are going to donate their bodies for the sake of science, bravo, you are a more wellrounded person than I!
Look, its not everyones cup of tea and its certainly not mine, but why condemn those that wish to do this??
Personally, I would like to go. This is all very interesting to me, maybe I have just watched too many horror films and am not squemish. But wouldnt you like to know about this? You have skin, bones and flesh aswell. I think the person who came up with this exibition must have a somewhat strange mind to think of these undesireable questions. Like what would it look like if you held your own skin in your hand.
I think we are too squemish as a society and its just our morals and ethics that instantly turn us away from this kind of thing.
I think we are too squemish as a society and its just our morals and ethics that instantly turn us away from this kind of thing.
For me this isn't really that violent and is science
I also admit that my first immediate thinking was violent
but i thought of this twice that this could be an opening of something new to us all
This could lead to the creation of probably,cyborgs,robots
As the years to come,technology advances and gets more evolved
I also admit that my first immediate thinking was violent
but i thought of this twice that this could be an opening of something new to us all
This could lead to the creation of probably,cyborgs,robots
As the years to come,technology advances and gets more evolved
I'm the kind of person who doesn't care what happens to my body when I die, toss me in the river for all I care, but putting human bodies on display is just wrong. It would be wrong to put any corpse on display, with the exception of hunting because its a trophy. But people arent trophies, and putting their body on display in the name of science doesn't make it okay. How can putting a person's body on display advance science? The science of human anatonomy is advanced by scientists, not tourists. These people are just sick, and I'm surprised that it's even being allowed. If someone wants to learn about a human corpse, they can buy a book, or go to college, not this sick display of human bodies.
I'm not squeamish or anything, but if you want to learn about the human body then what is wrong with a model? Today's technology can certainly make models as accurate as a real corpse. Someone please explain how this will advance science, beyond science labs.
I'm not squeamish or anything, but if you want to learn about the human body then what is wrong with a model? Today's technology can certainly make models as accurate as a real corpse. Someone please explain how this will advance science, beyond science labs.
I think this is great.
It is a way for many people who would not normally get the chance to see the human body's internal workings, how things work together to keep you alive. The Processes the Human body is going through right now as you read this is quite amazing. The eduacational value is quite high aswell, at least people are seeing the effect that plastination has, no more medical students going out to the graveyards at midnight to dig up a few corpses. Some things you just have to learn by doing. Plus, it's really interesting.
I was never really interested in biology as such, but now i wish i could go back and study Human Biology, I find it so fascinating. And von Hagen's shows are really quite good, very interesting and informative. It can also be a king of shock treatment for people to see this stuff up close; I watched a program where a woman had a tumor on her lung because she smoked, and they took the tumor and showed it to a young smoker, and she basically gave up right there, the thought of a tennis ball sized lump in her lung was enough to stop her from smoking.
Although, I understand some people dont like the thought of it, but basically, if you dont want to watch it, no-one is forcing you to, just change the channel or don't turn up to the exhibition. That way no-one is offended, and the donors will know exactly what they are doing and will more than likely be happy with it, and at the end of the day, its their decision, so I'm all for this. Definately something I'd be interested in finding out more about.
There, Rant Over.
It is a way for many people who would not normally get the chance to see the human body's internal workings, how things work together to keep you alive. The Processes the Human body is going through right now as you read this is quite amazing. The eduacational value is quite high aswell, at least people are seeing the effect that plastination has, no more medical students going out to the graveyards at midnight to dig up a few corpses. Some things you just have to learn by doing. Plus, it's really interesting.
I was never really interested in biology as such, but now i wish i could go back and study Human Biology, I find it so fascinating. And von Hagen's shows are really quite good, very interesting and informative. It can also be a king of shock treatment for people to see this stuff up close; I watched a program where a woman had a tumor on her lung because she smoked, and they took the tumor and showed it to a young smoker, and she basically gave up right there, the thought of a tennis ball sized lump in her lung was enough to stop her from smoking.
Although, I understand some people dont like the thought of it, but basically, if you dont want to watch it, no-one is forcing you to, just change the channel or don't turn up to the exhibition. That way no-one is offended, and the donors will know exactly what they are doing and will more than likely be happy with it, and at the end of the day, its their decision, so I'm all for this. Definately something I'd be interested in finding out more about.
There, Rant Over.
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