An anatomy lab is as choosy as a pedigreed woman seeking love: You can't be too fat or too tall or have any communicable diseases.
In Mary Roach's "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," the author explores the world of human anatomy labs, emphasizing their selective nature. The comparison she makes suggests that just as a highly discerning woman might have strict requirements for a partner, anatomy labs have specific criteria for accepting cadavers. These criteria often include factors such as body weight, height, and health status, as labs aim to provide the best specimens for study. Roach's analogy highlights the complex relationship humans have with their bodies and the value placed on them post-mortem. By presenting these requirements with humor and candor, she invites readers to consider the ethical and scientific implications of using human remains for educational purposes. The excerpt underscores the careful considerations involved in anatomical studies and reflects on the dignity accorded to those who donate their bodies for science.
