Stiff: the Curious Lives of Human Cadavers Essay Example

be hindered by religious ideologies. The debate between religion, science, and politics seems to be a perpetual cycle where each side attempts to discredit the other. The tension between religion and science will likely persist indefinitely.

Religion and science have distinct characteristics - the former depends on miracles and hope, while the latter employs facts, concrete evidence, and experimental testing to create its own miracles. Respecting the dead and religion is a crucial factor in bridging the gap between these two fields. With mutual understanding, society can avoid pointless arguments about right and wrong. As an illustration of scientific reverence, Roach stated, "Many of the students gave their cadavers names. Not like Beef Jerky. Real names,' said one student" (Roach 39). From Stiff, I've acquired knowledge about the varied applications of cadavers and a deeper understanding of the history of medicine.

After reading Stiff, I gained an appreciation for learning new and unique information. The book provided inventive ways of expressing common phrases with a more intellectual tone, such as the example "Others must feel the same; there isn't an anhydrous lacrimal gland in the house" (Roach 38) to mean "there wasn't a dry eye in the house". Alongside the captivating insights into the history of anatomy and behind-the-scenes of medicine, Stiff also presents unsettling and potentially disturbing information. While the book is intriguing, it can be overwhelming with information overload at times.

Upon finishing Stiff, I engaged in introspection regarding my mortality, beliefs, and posthumous desires. While the content was occasionally overwhelming, I recognized that my response to the book might differ if I had recently experienced the loss of a loved one due to illness, surgery

or accident. It became clear that certain segments of the book were meant to be solemn since life is not solely humorous. The autopsy procedure emphasizes body parts rather than the person as a whole, with depictions beginning at the eyes and progressing towards the mouth.

Roach (116-117) suggests that the most effective way to engage with others on an emotional level is by avoiding making judgments based on their personal situations. In my perspective, I found this book to be thoroughly enjoyable and compelling, sparking my curiosity in seeking out similar literature in the future.

Mary Roach's book, "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," is best suited for readers who share the author's humorous approach to death, similar to her father. Although it provides valuable information on the physical aspects of death, some chapters contain graphic descriptions that may not be suitable for all readers and could require a certain level of emotional detachment.

published the book "New York" in 2003.