A Humanist perspective on organ donation
Is organ donation permitted for Humanists?
Humanists believe that reason, experience and evidence and not "faith" are the best ways of finding out about the universe and the world around us. They base their morality on what will best contribute to human welfare and human fulfillment.
They believe that we have only one life and that we can make it meaningful and fulfilling by being happy, making others happy and adopting worthwhile goals to give our lives meaning and purpose.
As humanists do not believe in a continued existence after death or place an additional spiritual value upon the body, they do not object to allowing their organs to be used to help others after death, except for when an individual has expressed a personal wish to the contrary.
Most humanists would consider that we have a moral responsibility to allow our organs to be used for transplantation, if that will help save lives and improve the quality of life for others.
The Humanist view of life is progressive and optimistic, in awe of human potential, living without fear of judgement and death, finding enough purpose and meaning in life, love and leaving a good legacyPolly Toynbee
Vice-President of Humanists UK
Someone who has enjoyed a normal lifespan and looks back on their joys and achievements can feel a sense of fulfilment and completion - all the more so if they know that they will be remembered fondly and that they have bequeathed something positive to the next generation. That is the only sort of immortality we can hope for, and the only sort worth havingThe Humanist Philosophers
Humanist donor cards
If you support organ donation, why not download our Humanist digital, printable and smartphone wallpaper donor cards?
