In regards to bioethics and Emily’s Scars Arthur Frank forces us to ask ourselves, when does the use of science to “fix” our problems become unnecessary? From limb lengthening to designer feet, countless medical procedures exist intended to alter our bodies and make our lives easier. But do any of these procedures ever cross the line and go too far? The answer in my eyes, is yes.
In Emily’s Scars Frank very clearly reminds us that all choices have implications on others and therefore our decisions must be made cautiously and slowly. This I think is key in defining exactly when procedures like this cross the line. Often times people never consider how much power they have when making a decision like this and how much their choice will affect others. It’s easy to forget things like this when you think the choice is solely a personal one. “Who cares if I shrink my feet? They are my feet, no one but me is affected!” Wrong. Procedures like the ones that produce designer feet set a precedent, and buying into these procedures feeds this precedent. Soon the pressure on people with natural sized feet is raised. Natural feet are ugly, only size 3 ½ feet are cute, so shrink ‘em! Getting a procedure like this done influences others to do so as well. It also puts an unnecessary importance on looks and beauty in society.
Besides indirectly affected people through influence these procedures also have the power to directly affect others. It is conceivable for Apotemnophiliacs who have their legs removed (to “fix” themselves and become the true them) to advocate for more wheelchair ramps. But who pays for things like this? Anyone who pays taxes most likely. But is this fair when it’s not them using the ramps and some of the people who do became handicapped on their own volition? I think not.
So ultimately it is absolutely essential to take others into account when contemplating over whether or not to take advantage of science and dramatically fix or change one’s body. If a procedure does have many adverse affects on others it is probably going too far. After all, if these choices to change the body truly are personal choices like many patients claim they are, then they better stay personal, I don’t want them affecting me!
The issue of an individuals impact in society is often overlooked in our society today. Individuals frequently wonder why they can't own that awesome 30 round assault rifle or have their sixth cosmetic procedure to get a little "touched up" but in reality the quote "no man (or woman) is an island" holds true and we all affect eachother wether we like it or not and due to this we must exercise restraint in our consumption lest it overwhelm and destroy us, competitive eating is one such example of people who are acting without regard to the others in their society I personally find it deplorable given the situation of some people in poverty today.
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