Peggy Slasman

Xenotransplantation is a process whereby an organ from one species is transplanted into the body of another species; these operations typically involve an animal donor and human recipient. Doctors can safely and effectively replace deteriorating human organs with pig organs, Peggy Slasman argues in the following viewpoint. Slasman maintains that pig organs are viable replacements for human organs because they are similar in size and shape to their human counterparts and are readily available. She also contends that scientists are developing techniques to minimize the risk that the recipient’s body will reject the pig organ or become infected by it. Slasman is the chief public relations officer at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In Slasman’s opinion, why are fewer ethical concerns raised by the use...