Legal Status of Human Body and Detached Parts

This lecture delves into the legal status of the human body and detached parts, exploring the concepts of personhood, property rights, and the ethical implications of using biological material. It discusses the classification of human body parts as either things or persons, the acquisition of ownership over detached parts, and the complex interplay between real rights and personality rights. Various legal frameworks, including international conventions, the Swiss Civil Code, and specific laws on organ transplantation and genetic analysis, are analyzed in the context of research, medical procedures, and personal autonomy. Case studies and ethical dilemmas highlight the importance of consent, privacy protection, and the boundaries of ownership and control over human biological material.