Deck 3: We Die When Entropy Overwhelms Homeostasis

Question 1

Homeostasis is

A) A generalized function of the organism in which multiple physiologic variables are maintained within particular ranges
B) A function of the brain, which oversees all functions of the organism, in which multiple physiologic variables are maintained within particular ranges
C) Based on a theory of aging
D) Incompatible with life

Answer 1

A generalized function of the organism in which multiple physiologic variables are maintained within particular ranges

Question 2

According to Nair-Collins, death is

A) Irreversible loss of consciousness
B) Irreversible loss of cardiovascular functions
C) The event at which entropy overwhelms the organism's capacity to preserve homeostasis
D) The process by which entropy overwhelms the organism's capacity to preserve homeostasis

Answer 2

The event at which entropy overwhelms the organism's capacity to preserve homeostasis

Question 3

Which of the below are criteria for positively evaluating a proposed scientific theory or definition?

A) Consistency with commonsense or intuition
B) It's being ad hoc
C) The theory draws on similar ontological posits or theoretical frameworks as other well-accepted scientific theories
D) None of the above

Answer 3

The theory draws on similar ontological posits or theoretical frameworks as other well-accepted scientific theories

Question 4

According to the Uniform Determination of Death Act

A) An individual who sustained irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory functions, is dead
B) An individual who sustained irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brainstem, is dead
C) All of the above
D) None of the above

Question 5

The higher brain theory of death

A) Holds that brain dead bodies are biologically dead
B) Holds that a person dies when they have any damage to the neocortex (or "higher-brain")
C) Holds that an individual with irreversible cessation of the capacity for consciousness, is dead
D) Does not make a distinction between death of the human person or human being, and death of the body or organism

Question 6

Describe the higher-brain theory of death. Next, describe at least two views of personhood, human identity, human being, or moral status, other than the higher-brain family of views. Finally, compare, contrast, and then evaluate them. Which, if any, is most satisfactory and why?

Question 7

Explain Nair-Collins's arguments against contemporary death determination practices. Be sure to include discussion of the theory of death as the event when entropy overwhelms homeostasis, and whether "brain dead" patients remain biologically living. Next, evaluate. Are his arguments successful? Can contemporary death determination practices be defended?