The Commodification of the Body and its Parts

Abstract

The human body--and its parts--has long been a target for commodification within myriad cultural settings. A discussion of commodification requires that one consider, first, the significance of the body within anthropology and, second, what defines a body "part." After exploring these initial questions, this article outlines dominant theoretical approaches to commodification within anthropology, with Mauss and Marx figuring prominently. The discussion then turns to historically well-documented forms of body commodification: These include slavery and other oppressive labor practices; female reproduction; and the realms of sorcery and endocannibalism. An analysis here uncovers dominant established approaches that continue to drive current studies. The remainder of this article concerns emergent biotechnologies, whose application in clinical and other related scientific arenas marks a paradigmatic shift in anthropological understandings of the commodified, fragmented body. The following contexts are explored with care: reproductive technologies; organ transplantation; cosmetic and transsexual surgeries; genetics and immunology; and, finally, the category of the cyborg. The article concludes with suggestions for an integrated theoretical vision, advocating greater cross-fertilization of analytical approaches and the inclusion of an ethics of body commodification within anthropology.

Commodification of knowledge in system of higher education

“…This leads to the increase of commodification, which is implemented in the social sphere (Sharp, 2000), and also affects the education system. Commodification is one of the key processes typical for Western market economies.…”

Contractual Transaction: How Renting a Uterus Makes the Human Body a Commodity in Nepal

“…Surrogacy motherhood is an example of the female bodies' commodification and their reproductive capabilities. Advertisement on the web detailing the desired characteristics of surrogates, for instance, intelligence, beauty, manners, schooling, body size, and poise, over-score certain characteristics of female bodies (Sharp, 2000).…”

“…Some would put it more negatively, using terms like 'reproductive prostitution', 'baby trade', 'selling body and parts', 'renting a uterus', 'contract pregnancy', 'incubatory servitude', etc. (Sharp, 2000). Little attention has been given to socio-cultural concerns.…”

Embodied Subjects and Fragmented Objects: Women’s Bodies, Assisted Reproduction Technologies and the Right to Self-Determination

“…Commodification of human corpses and body parts procured from the living and dead has a long history. Human material has value as trophies of war, religious relics, and therapeutic materials, medicinal and anatomical specimens (Sharp 2000;Lock 2001). Late modernity is witness to further commodification of the body within the medical market place.…”