The "higher brain" standard states that a person is dead
A) when the brain fails to integrate the various functions of the body
B) when her psychological capacities, including her consciousness, have been irreversibly lost
C) when the brain's cells have all died
D) when the body's tissues begin to decay

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "higher brain" standard, also known as the neurological standard, defines the death of a person as the irreversible loss of all functions of the entire brain, including the cerebrum and brainstem, which are responsible for consciousness and higher psychological functions such as thinking, feeling, and sensing. When the higher brain functions are irreversibly lost, the person is considered dead, even if other bodily functions such as breathing or heartbeat can be maintained with medical technology. Therefore, option B, which refers to the irreversible loss of psychological capacities, is the best choice.

The "Higher Brain" Standard States That a Person Is Dead