“Frankenstein to futurism”: representations of organ donation and transplantation in popular culture

As human organ donation and transplantation have become both an accepted medical practice and a social reality, their representation in popular culture (particularly in books and movies) has moved from the horror genre to mainstream drama and to futuristic prophecy. In many instances, these representations reflect and reinforce the numerous myths and apprehensions associated with organ donation and transplantation. This paper examines patterns of representation and examines the possibilities for using popular culture as a medium to promote organ donation and transplantation and to influence public attitudes toward these practices.