Spain has us beautifully beat
The United States does not lead the world in organ donations.
That crown belongs to Spain.
Spain has what is called presumed consent, which means, when someone dies, it is presumed they’re an organ donor.
However..
Spain also has a law that says, before anyone’s organs are donated, families should always be consulted.
So in essence, when you die, your family can opt you in (or out) as an organ donor.
So how does Spain lead the entire world in organ donations?
Clearly it’s not the law.
Rather it’s what the law signals.
“Here in Spain, we donate our organs.”
“People like us, do things like this.”
And so when families are asked whether they’ll be donating their family member’s organs or not..
“Of course we are.”
Because everyday you are sending signals..
Signals as to what type of person you are, what kind of beliefs you uphold, and what type of community you’re a part of.
I just hope the signals you’re sending are the ones you intend to.
