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The best option argument and kidney sales: a reply to Albertsen
  1. Luke Semrau
  1. Philosophy, Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg, PA, USA
  1. Correspondence to Dr Luke Semrau, Philosophy, Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg, PA, USA; luke.semrau{at}gmail.com

Abstract

In a recent article, Albertsen both elaborates the best option argument for regulated markets and levels a justice-based objection to kidney sales. In the present article, I show that Albertsen has crucially misunderstood the best option argument. It is not a defence of kidney sales, as Albertsen claims. It is a reply to an objection. The objection, perennial in the debate, opposes kidney sales on the grounds that sellers would be harmed. The best option argument—proving that prohibitions tend to set back the interests of those denied their preferred option—shows this thinking to be confused. If sound, the best option argument dramatically undercuts any attempt to oppose a market citing would-be sellers’ interests.

  • tissue and organ procurement
  • ethics

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Footnotes

  • Contributors I am the sole author.

  • Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.

  • Competing interests None declared.

  • Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; internally peer reviewed.

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