In "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," Mary Roach explores the often-overlooked role that cadavers play in medical research and education. She highlights the fascinating and sometimes quirky aspects of how human remains contribute to our understanding of anatomy and various medical practices. Despite their importance in teaching, cadavers are not always embraced by students who may feel uncomfortable with the idea of studying them. Roach emphasizes the value of this learning process, yet acknowledges that students often resist paying tuition for courses focused on subjects like anatomy. This reflects a broader societal discomfort with death and the human body, even as the knowledge gained from such studies is crucial for the advancement of medicine. The book combines humor and scientific insight, making a compelling case for the respect and curiosity that should accompany our understanding of human cadavers.

In "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," Mary Roach explores the often-overlooked role that cadavers play in medical research and education. She highlights the fascinating and sometimes quirky aspects of how human remains contribute to our understanding of anatomy and various medical practices. Despite their importance in teaching, cadavers are not always embraced by students who may feel uncomfortable with the idea of studying them.

Roach emphasizes the value of this learning process, yet acknowledges that students often resist paying tuition for courses focused on subjects like anatomy. This reflects a broader societal discomfort with death and the human body, even as the knowledge gained from such studies is crucial for the advancement of medicine. The book combines humor and scientific insight, making a compelling case for the respect and curiosity that should accompany our understanding of human cadavers.