"Bodies ... The Exhibition," featuring 15 full-body human corpses from China that have been preserved by a process called "plastination," is scheduled to open at The Carnegie Science Center in October for a seven-month run.

It is one of three major traveling exhibits that have been drawing huge crowds around the world. But along with the exhibits' popularity have come ethical and religious concerns. [ Read story ]

We asked readers for their comments about the exhibit and the controversy. Here's a selection of the responses.

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I saw the same exhibit at the Tampa Museum of Science and Industry as the Carnegie advisory committee, and cannot agree more with their decision to bring this extraordinary exhibit to Pittsburgh. I am anxious to see it again --this time to share with my elementary-aged grandchildren.

To see the skill, respect and care with which these bodies are presented, and the atmosphere engendered, would quickly dissipate most dissenters' objections. The human body is beautiful and breathtaking in its intricacies, and the unbelievable skill displayed in showing that to us is an enriching and educational experience. Those attending were hushed, respectful and completely absorbed.

I spent three hours at the exhibit --and left with a sense of awe.

Nancy L. Holub, Upper St. Clair

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My Catholic faith leads to me to reverence the bodies of the dead in the whole context of God's creation into which our bodies fit. I am not troubled by viewing of dead bodies for purposes that are educational/medical as long as the bodies are treated with due respect and reverence for the dignity of the individual person who once inhabited that body.

Several things about the Premier Exhibition at Carniegie Science Center would concern me:

.I find the idea using an exhibit of bodies for a lucrative business venture appalling. It comes too close to the same phenomena that underlies other human abuses such as the Holocaust factories, pornography and trafficking.

.The question of the provenance of these bodies is very important. Did they know or do their families know of this use of their loved ones bodies?

Does anyone know their names?

I commend Ms. Catz. She raises substantive and principled questions, and is paying a high personal price for her integrity.

Sincerely,

Sister Patricia McCann, Sisters of Mercy, (Oakland) Pittsburgh

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I had the opportunity to see the Bodies exhibit when it was in Cleveland two years ago I found it to be the most incredibly beautiful exhibit I have ever seen. I was mesmerized by the poetic beauty of the figures. They are arranged as if in motion and are labeled with titles such as "The Ballet Dancer" and "The Baseball Player". I was fascinated by the opportunity to discover the nuances of changes within the anatomy of the figures as they "performed" a range of physical activities, and I virtually spent three hours touring the exhibit, reading all of the descriptions, and observing the figures from various angles. I was very moved by the exhibit and find the controversy puzzling. A visitor has only to spend five minutes in the exhibit hall to recognize the tasteful presentation of the figures and realize the Bodies exhibit is a once-in-a-lifetime, incredible learning opportunity. The others touring the exhibit at the same time seemed to feel much the same way. There was a hushed reverence that pervaded the hall and visitors were very respectful. I have encouraged family and friends to visit the Science Center in the fall specifically to view the exhibit, and I am looking forward to experiencing the Bodies exhibit again myself.

Carolyn Pysch, Gibsonia

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I recently visited the Bodies Exhibition in Las Vegas and I was completely impressed. While I realize that issues surrounding the acquisition of the bodies may be suspect, I cannot ignore the fact that true respect and scientific precision was ultimately shown to these bodies that we can now observe up close. They are a part of one of the most unique educational experiences I've encountered. Ultimately, these bodies have been immortalized in a fashion that will give new life and new knowledge to so many of us who have not spent years in a gross anatomy lab or hours trying to analyze 3-D graphical representations of anatomy from computer screens.

While I may face uncomfortable feelings for the humans who inhabited the bodies originally, I cannot ignore that fact that they now carry on, in a new way, providing an incredible learning experience. I will see the exhibit again in Pittsburgh!

Mary Jo Dorsey, Pittsburgh

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This exhibit was in Dallas for almost 4 months, and as it sometimes goes, my husband and I waited until the last weekend to attend, which happened to be Mother's Day. As a result, there were a lot of children at the exhibit. I had read enough information prior to attending to know how explicit the exhibit would be and I wasn't quite sure this would be the place to bring your kids. As we made our way through the exhibit, I was absolutely mezmorized and amazed to see what our bodies are made up of and to learn what goes on in there! Throughout most of the exhibit, I followed the same group of people, which included a woman with her daughter, probably around 8 or 9. At almost every exhibit, the young girl would read the information and then ask her mother a question, who answered every question without hesitation. I saw a really fantastic exhibit that showed me the the resilience, as well as the frailty of the human body. I also saw a mother who allowed her daughter to experience the day with natural innocense and wonder - that was a nice gift.

Betty Jo Huwar, Flower Mound TX
(formerly from Aliquippa PA)

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Dear Post-Gazette Editorial Board,

During the summer of 1999, I was studying abroad in Vienna,

Austria and I had the misfortune of seeing "Bodies... The Exhibition" or as it was called at the time Koeper Welt.

Unlike the present exhibit, Koeper Welt was billed as being an art

exhibit first and a scientific and anatomical display second. After seeing pictures of the exhibit on Post-Gazette.com, I am of the opinion that "Bodies??? The Exhibition" is in keeping with the intent of the original exhibit, while modifying the marketing to entice an American audience. (The photographs on the Web site are in the exact same poses as those in Vienna.)

Quite frankly, "Bodies ... The Exhibition" is obscene by any standard and lacking in scientific, anatomic and even artistic value.

Sincerely,

Richard Ernsberger, Pittsburgh

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Sally Kalson:

It is unacceptable for a civilized society to display the exposed

remains of a human being.

Each of these bodies once contained an indestructable soul. The human remains deserve a proper burial, not naked display.

What a surprise that this comes out of China, a dehumanizing society.

This is the epitome of disrespect.

Ask yourself, Would you like someone you know to be displayed like this?

That person was loved by someone. Now in their death they are not

protected by the Government they paid taxes to.

This is the worst type of exploitation.

I am firmly against this and will let the Science Center know this.

I went to Steel Valley High School and did Graduate Engineering at

the University of Pittsburgh.

Thank you for reporting on this.

My appreciation goes out to Elaine Catz.

Ron Kovel, West Mifflin

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Here in Australia, the free, nationwide SBS network recently showed a lengthy documentary series on Monday nights at 11PM called Anatomy, in which Dr. Hagens performed autopsies in front of a studio audience. There were naked bodies and everything! Each show would focus on a different part of the body--the digestive tract is one I remember in particular--and would explain how it worked, the ways it could be harmed, and how to prevent that harm.

It was a very compelling, intellectual, and yes, sometimes squeamish show. But it gave me a much better understanding of, and greater respect for, the human body--truly God's most magnificent machine, so why not learn about it?

Chris Zurawsky, Hamilton, Australia

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My profession was nursing, a BSN with specialty in Spinal Cord Injury. The body is not a great mystery to me. But I'll go out on a limb here. One of the big reasons I went into nursing and never burned out was insatiable curiosity, which never abated. Therefore, knowing all this, and at 74 years of age with 46 years of medical service, I would still go to this exhibit, behave with dignity, check it all out, while thinking silently," Wow, fascinating, and eewwwww." This may give ammunition to those who feel this display is not tasteful, appealing to lesser motives, and this might be true. I'd still go.

Marjorie Wells, Midlothian VA

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I think the people that find this display offensive are absolutely ridiculous. This has to be hands down the most amazing thing we could ever see, offering a look into the body that only doctors and the like get to see. I have been fascinated by this since I heard about it a long time ago and cannot wait to see it and plan to take my children who are 8 and 12. I see it as an ABSOLUTE learning experience. To be afforded a chance to see exactly what we look like inside and how our body functions is a wonderful thing, not to mention beyond educational. It has NOTHING to do with nudity nor is it sexual. I actually feel bad for people who are so uptight about things like that. This is after all what we ALL look like inside.

I actually am in Orlando right now on a business trip and have seen the bilboard for the exhibit here at their science center, I polled some people that I work with and they were all pretty grossed out at the exhibit and do not plan to see it.

I see it this way, if you don't want to see it ....... DONT GO

Leeann Thomas, Verona, Pa

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Philip Thompson and Nick Baich really stated what I was thinking. When I initially heard of this exhibit in Philadelphia, I was appalled. As a nurse, you might think I would be interested and eager to attend, perhaps to learn and advance my knowledge. But I won't be attending. Personally, I find the display grotesque, offensive and disrespectful to the dead. I would not want any of my dead relatives or friends put on display like this and I wonder if the attendees and promoters would be as enthusiastic if the display models were their loved ones. Another example, albeit exceptionally grotesque, of man's ability to put making a buck above integrity.

Joanne Grimes, Monroeville

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I personally cannot wait for the exhibit to open. A group of girls and I from school are already planning on attending. I think its absolutely amazing how the body works and to be able to capture that is revolutionary. As far as the controversy I don't think people are educated about the procedure that takes place. There is controversy in everything that takes place in life, it's just not that publicly scrutinized.

Elizabeth Todd, Pittsburgh

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My grandchildren will not enter the building as long as it is there.

jack jennings pgh, pa.

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While I consider myself to be quite liberal and progressive, I find the cadaver exhibit revolting. Not even taking into account any human rights issues, I think it is grotesque and insensitive. I would think that anyone who has dealt with the death of a loved one would be appalled by corpses mutilated and put on display like some circus side-show. And my heart aches for women who have been traumatized by a miscarriage or stillbirth; so to display fetuses at various stages of gestation is even more offensive to me. Cadavers being used with permission in private educational settings is one thing, but posing them - in mockery of things they did while living - is psychologically aberrant, in addition to just plain creepy.

Darcy Larimore, Baden, PA

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I viewer the " Bodies " here in Tampa and the same furor erupted here as I am sure will happen in Pittsburgh . At first it is very creepy , but under closer examination it is quite interesting and revealing .

I will challenge any smoker to observe the smoker's body and then go out and light up . I am sure it caused a mass smoke out here in Florida.

Give it a chance and you will come away a little more educated on the workings of the human body .

Gil Lucas, Holmes Beach , Fla

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ick

Maria L. Romito, Pittsburgh

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My family will be making their yearly Thanksgiving trek back to Pittsburgh and I can not wait to go to the science center to see this exhibit. A friend of the family saw it in Detroit and said that it was absolutely fascinating.

For those that feel offended , then do not go. I feel that it will be a learning experience to view these bodies.

M.Turner, Kansas City

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When I first heard about the exhibit coming I tried to stay calm. I don't consider myself a prude or close minded. I try to embrace new and different things, it only makes us a more rounded person. I tried to read about the exhibit and only got sicker, what they are trying to pass off as art to make millions is disturbing. It's alarming to think that the Science Center was sucked into this display as "science" or even suitable for young members and visitors. I have a 6 year old that I would never allow to see this. Even if I thought it was for educational purposes. How many parents would be on the phone with their kids school if this was to be brought in as an assembly? How many threatened lawsuits? Just the thought of skinning someone to look inside and putting it only display in poses is just plain ridiculous. How do you explain this to children? Not to even mention the money aspect. $22 extra. If this truly was a display for education why charge, or charge so much? How much will the Science Center make from this controversial exhibit? I am sure a ton! Money always seems to be the deciding factor between "should we" or "shouldn't we". Monetary gain is the motive here, not the poor people that supposedly have been unclaimed, I pray for them.

I have always considered the Science Center a place for families to learn and have fun. I think this exhibit, even if hidden away, could possibly attract a very unsuitable crowd. I am not saying that all people that visit the exhibit have some sort of ulterior motive but it just takes one in the crowd of thousands. Do you really want that one person mingling with your family or children in the restroom? How many will see it because it's "cool"? How many truly see it as a learning experience like I am hoping it's intention is. I can only assume people are attracted because it's controversial not because they want to learn. If learning is the argument why not volunteer at a local hospital or nursing home. You can learn a lot about the human body at these places. It's human nature to be curious. But let's be responsible. I am sure that this will attract thousands of Pittsburghers.

I truly hope that the Science Center reconsiders their decision to host this exhibit. I can only hope it goes somewhere else. You can never argue morals with the public, no one will win. Just don't have this edgy exhibit at a family venture. Let families decide if they want to be in that atmosphere. I know for sure we will not be renewing our membership for the year or attending any outings at the Center while this is going on.

Paulette C., Pittsburgh

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I saw "Bodies: The Exhibition" at the Tropicana Resort and Casino when I was in Las Vegas earlier this month for Americans for the Arts' annual conference. While I admit the venue was unorthodox, I was absolutely astounded to see aspects of the human body that I had only seen in textbooks: the circulatory system, for one, had been isolated so that the viewer could see in three dimensions and in minute detail where and how the blood flows. I honestly don't know how to reconcile doubts about provenance and assurances, but I do know that I was moved by the opportunity to see the complex and elegant design of the human body in a way that I will never forget.

Susan Blackman, Highland Park

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I had the chance to see this exhibit when it was here in Atlanta. It was a great attraction that was always drawing a crowd. I found it fascinating to see the human bodies with the "X-ray" vision. I can see how people would be disgusted by the exhibit, but in my opionion there is a greater good than a negative being presented.

Ryan Pellegrino, Atlanta, GA-formerly of Plum Bororugh

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I think the Science Center has a lot of nerve complaining about the children being in view of a casino, when they have a display like that open to the public.

What would be next, naked bodies in artistic poses, with the skin intact? Oh, excuse me, we already have that at several "gentleman's clubs" in the area.

Victor Potts, Bocktown, Pa

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I moved to Chicago from Pittsburgh last year and saw Body Worlds 2 at the Museum of Science and Industry. Although a different organization is presenting the show in Pittsburgh, I think it has the same effect.

I do not object morally to these exhibits. I believe that when a person dies, that's it. There is no heaven or hell, and even if there was, isn't the body just a vessel?

I was amazed at what I saw and it really made me think about the way I eat and how I take care of my own body. I think it is a great opportunity for adults and children to see what is going on inside them. Photographs and drawings are helpful, yet they are nowhere near as informative as the exhibit. Had I seen this exhibit when I was a child, I would have been much more interested in studying science in school.

Go see the show!

Rebecca Morris, Chicago
(formerly of Pittsburgh)

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I was reading the article in the PPG and felt compelled to comment about this.

I saw this exhibit in New York City at the South Street Seaport. I must say that I was completely fascinated by the whole thing and was there for 2-3 hours; which was not enough time to go through it.

Yes, the exhibition is comprised of bodies from China but there are a few that are not. After inquiring about the bodies, we were told these individuals were either donated or were left unclaimed (if you will) during the last 10 years. Therefore, I believe this should not be taken personally to the community but thanks to the individuals that donated themselves to be explored for educational and research purposes.

With all do respect, its not text book, its real life!

I was a business major in college but have always been fascinated by anatomy and this will certainly demonstrate the curiosity of it all. Its done in very good taste and not to mention the detail that is

involved in putting something like this together is amazing. I am a Pittsburgh native and worked at the Heinz History center and am aware of what it takes to put an exhibit together; this is unbelievable! I hope that they will bring the same exact set up to the Carnegie ...

I would definitely keep an open mind and an empty stomach! Work the look!

Darlene J. Vargo, Guttenberg, NJ

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I personally can't wait for this exhibit to come to Pittsburgh. I think that all people young (yes children) and old should see this to have an appreciation of the human body and its intricacies. I will take my children to see this. If you act like the human body is taboo then you are teaching the children that there is something wrong with it. If you expose them to it then they view it as a fragile thing that should be appreciated and not scary or wrong.

As far as how they received the bodies... that is up to the authorities to handle, IF there is a feeling of foul play. But my initial reaction is that this is a way for the right wing, conservative, religious, to protest something they do not like, without looking too conservative.

However you feel about it or treat it, is perfectly ok. Thats why it's great to live in this country. Boycot it if you dislike it, marvel at it if you like it, it's your freedom to do so.

While I don't agree with the employee that quit, I absolutely applaud her conviction and determination to make an impact on the situation. Our society, as a whole, needs more brave people like this.

Shaun Noon, Allison Park

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As someone who has seen the "Bodies" exhibit twice, I will state first that I was not aware of any controversy regarding whether or not the people whose bodies or whose parts were used gave their consent or would have given their consent. That does concern me. This issue cannot be glossed over.

Regarding the experience I will say that I entered and left with a great sense of awe. My appreciation of the wonder of life itself and the sacredness of our Bodies, gifts from God, made in the image of God, was only deepened by the experience. And, I wondered, too, about the people. Like me, they had lives and stories---they were my brothers and sisters.

To be sure this is not for everyone, much like the "Lynching" exhibit at The Warhol or the Holocaust Museum might not be for everyone. However, despite what one might know intellectually, to see with ones eyes can improve ones vision.

Edward Wagner, Las Vegas, Nevada

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First of all, I hope the Bodies exhibit is far far away from anywhere that young children might be able to get a peek. Even if you want to see the show yourself, no one in his or her right mind could say that this show is appropriate on any level for a five or six year old child, or that the Science Center should be allowed to position such a controversial "work of art" in a place where a parent doesn't have control over whether their child sees it.

Secondly, for all of the people who can't imagine why someone might be morally opposed to this show, how would you feel if your mother's or father's or wife's or husband's or child's body was stripped of its skin, posed, and put on display in a foreign country without your knowledge or the deceased's consent? Don't jump on the bandwagon just because the show is cutting edge. Think about the moral ambiguity behind it before offering such support.

Nicole DeFazio, O'Hara Township

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I think it is a disgrace to have an exhibit such as that one.

Bodies and corpses are meant to be respected. God did not intend for us to exploit other people' bodies and ...... be proud of it!.

Hoda Abdel-Hamid, M.D., Pittsburgh

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I saw this exhibit at the Tropicana in Las Vegas last summer. It was very informative and interesting.

There was nothing negative about it at all. Why are people such prudes when it comes to the human body? The Las Vegas exhibit was very well done and effectively gave the visitor a chance to see the miracle of the human body, how it???s put together, and how each organ/tissue works.

Malissa A. Clay, Pittsburgh

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I recently stood in line for 6 hours, along with thousands of other people, to see this exhibit while working in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The exhibit was worth the wait. It was well displayed and very informative.

People that go to see this exhibit have to understand that it is just an exhibit ... nothing more ... it's not science, nor is it religious.

Why do people feel the need to twist this into something it's not. It's entertainment. You pay an admission to see a show. You get a show.

If you don't agree with the content, the circumstances or the politics surrounding this exhibit ... .don't go! Stay home.

But, quit whining about it and keep your negative comments and opinions to yourself.

I decided to see this exhibit. It was my choice, no one else's.

William Eastman, Cranberry Twp

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I have not been exposed to this exhibit; however, I think it is very positive. Coming from a naval family, I learned to move around, adapt, and not become so stiflingly attached to things -- including physical things that are one day left in this world when we die. What is more important than physical things are the spirit, memory and respect that comes with a legacy, not the body itself. As a faithful Orthodox Christian, my spirit will one day be in heaven with God and what happens to my body after that is immaterial to me, except that I would certainly donate it for the benefit of those that come after me. That is the basis for my ethical stance on this matter.

In addition, what better proof is there of the beauty of life than to see the intricacies of the human body. Regardless of belief, visibility of the incredible display should elicit respect and fascination with humanity; I personally believe this is also a testament to the miracle of God's creation. As is evident in our culture and our world, few people have respect for their own bodies and the knowledge and fascination that I think would come from seeing this display will hopefully increase self-awareness.

Emily Siwicki, Wexford

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I saw Body Worlds in Philadelphia and learned more about the human body in a couple of hours than I had learned in years reading ... I know there may be some ethical problems with the bodies but I think the greatest respect we could show them is by learning from them and using this knowledge to take better care of our own bodies. we can work to stop unethical use of bodies in future but lets not miss this chance to learn now. I don't think it is an exhibit for young children but I am looking forward to taking my teen age grandaughter

Thank you for the article

Virginia Riggs, Slippery Rock

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We view mummies that were stolen from their sacred burial places in Egypt, I doubt they consented to this. We have no problems viewing dead animals in museums. We discuss these things as being appropriate to display because of historical value and as art. However, when an exhibit that displays the parts of our own bodies, that most never have the chance to see or learn about, we have problems with it. I believe that the Science Center is an appropriate place for this display of science.

Nathaniel Morley, Homewood

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I just read the article on "Bodies". It is a thoroughly disgusting display to me and my family! We have been members of the museums for many years but we will NOT go to the Science Center while that display is there. My handicapped son loves to come to the Center but I will not be taking him until it is gone. I am an R.N. and know what bodies look like inside and out but that is not a tasteful display. I wonder why you even bothered to welcome it.

June V. Golem; Verona

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This is one of the most amazing exhibits I have ever seen. I took it in while visiting Philadelphia last year.

The human body is an amazing thing and I think in our culture, it is possible to be somewhat disassociated from your own body.

This exhibit enables you to "look under the hood."

As someone who only recently committed to a lifestyle of fitness, my take away from this exhibit is that our bodies will respond to exactly what we ask them to do. Seize the day.

Very glad it is coming to our city.

Wendy Lomicka, Pittsburgh

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To Whom It May Concern,

The "Bodies" exhibit coming to the Carnegie Science Center does not fall under the category of educational. It is pure sensationalism, as there are dozens of anatomy, kinesiology and biology educational tools available that would give you a similar or better understanding of the inner workings of the human body. The lack of provenance and the history of Chinese human rights abuse should make the Carnegie Science Center consider either cancelling the "Bodies" exhibit or (if they must go down this path) switching to an exhibitor with a proven history of properly acquired cadavers, ones donated with full awareness of the intended use of their remains. I will not be visiting the "Bodies" exhibit, nor will I visit Carnegie Science Center while they have this exhibit. Furthermore, I would like to congratulate Ms. Catz on her integrity, I hope that her actions are rewarded with an employer that believes that integrity is a quality to be nurtured.

Sincerely,

Philip Thompson, Greenfield

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Unless there is documented proof that consents to use of the bodies I have ethical issues with the use of the use of the bodies in this way. We do not know the circumstances of these peoples death; particularly if the bodies came from China.

This society's desire for the almighty dollar creates a callousness and lack of respect regarding personal and civil rights of folk whether dead or alive.

Carolyn A. Jefferson, Pittsburgh

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I had the opportunity to view the Bodies Exhibit when it was on tour in Cleveland a year or so ago. My husband and youngest son who was 15 at the time looked forward to seeing this intriguing bit of science. Once inside we slowly walked for one and one half hours through the maze of posed bodies and body parts hardley beleiving what we were seeing. Almost like a car wreck...you don't want to look but you do. I must say the scientific process involved with these bodies was far beyond ones imagination. However, as we were leaving the exhibit I could not help but think and be sad that truly these poor souls, though we were told they donated their bodies to science, could never have imagined that they would be cut up and put on a money making display. I found myself praying for their souls as I walked back to the car.

Shelia Hanlon, West Deer Township

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This exhibit is fascinating. I just saw it in Vegas last month. It is very insightful and tastefully done. My wife is a physical therapist and she learned a lot from it that books can't teach. There is nothing wrong with Bodies exhibit and those who think otherwise do not understand its educational value. They should look beyond the fact that they were once living human beings with families and appreciate at their contribution to science.

Eric Stinelli, South Park

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My wife and I were residents of Scott Township for nearly 40years before retiring to the Tampa area of Florida in 2002. I go to the Post Gazette web page nearly every day and noted the story regarding the bodies exhibit this morning.

We went to this exhibit when it was at the Tampa Museum of Science and Industry--there was a great deal of controversy regarding this exhibit prior to its opening. My wife and I were both very impressed with the exhibit and we were glad that we had the opportunity to attend. We found the exhibit to be very educational and it left us in a state of amazement with respect to the intracasies of the human body. One couldn't help but notice how quiet everyone was while they were moving about the exhibit. We thought everything was done in a very respectful manner.

It is interesting to note that despite the local controversy prior to opening, I believe the exhibit stay was extended twice here in Tampa due to the very high rates of atendance.

John Van Ness, Hudson, Florida

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I am writing to thank reporter Sally Kalson for including the critical perspectives of Elaine Catz and Harry Wu in her June 21 article on *Bodies ... The Exhibition," the program scheduled to open at The Carnegie Science Center in October 2007. If the Science Center is genuinely committed to education perhaps it will include points of views such as Catz's and Wu's as part of this exhibit. Earlier this year The Andy Warhol Museum presented *Deadly Medicine: Creating the Master Race.* Perhaps members of The Carnegie Science Center would consider consulting with the organizers of *Deadly Medicine* in an effort to insure that the exhibit acknowledges the ways in which science and medicine have been used to dehumanize human beings.

Katie Hogan, Park Place

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Although i have not experienced this exhibit yet, i think it is not too different from other exhibits in our museums where we go to see all the different mummies and those mysterious Egyptian Kings and Queens. After all, they were removed from their sacred burial places for the enjoyment of and education of the public. If these bodies were wrapped up or placed in an elaborate sarcophagus, would it make a difference in opinion to those that think this is barbaric and sickening? Perhaps try to see it as an educational installation and not "art".

Sebastian A., Pittsburgh

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I don't understand some of the objections to the exhibit. First, bodies just like these are used for medical schools all the time. Few of the cadavers give their permission while they are alive. The bodies are unclaimed, and are either incinerated or given for medical use. Why are you not raising this issue?

Is it the fact that somebody is making money off the exhibit? What about those making money off people actually being killed in Iraq and Afghanistan? Or making money from the abuse of actual living people like illegal immigrants or those forced into prostitution in the Marianas Islands. Why no outrage for them? Please, keep your indignation for something that matters to the living.

I think it's a great exhibit. Think of how little you know about how your own body works. How all the muscles, tendons, and ligaments form a moving entity. What does a brain look like? Pictures don't do justice to the three dimensional living body. If you are queasy, stay away. But to say that people are ghouls for wanting to view an exhibit like this shows more about the narrowness of mind of the objectors than it does about the "ghoulishness" of the viewers.

Mark D'Amico, Ph.D., Scientist, Gaithersburg, MD

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I think this could be a fantastic opportunity to augment peoples' respect for the human body and for all living things. Perhaps ironically, the exhibit might be a reminder to those who see it that the body is much more than something to be looked at and judged--that human bodies and lives are miracles of function, adaptation, and survival. Add to that the fact that the cadavers were once people themselves, people whose mothers loved them, and who laughed, slept, ate, loved, thought, and hurt . . . well . . . that's an enormous amount to absorb.

Imagine the contemplation this exhibit could inspire: Museum visitors could be moved to think of their own bodies, of course, and of the undeniable similarities of their bodies to those of every other human being on the planet. Mortality could become something more than an abstraction. Life could become something more than an abstraction.

The sad truth, though, is that these cadavers came from China, where it isn't difficult to imagine that the people were whisked off the street and killed specifically for the purposes of this exhibition. As the provenance of the cadavers is at best suspect, I don't think I can bring myself to see the exhibit. Had the cadavers come from people who had clearly and unquestionably meant to donate their bodies to science, however, I would be first in line at the Science Center.

Gina Boyd, Regent Square

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I attended the Body Worlds exhibit in Philadelphia. It was fascinating, and the documentation of the donor's will to have their bodies used in such a way was present. I get a creepy feeling with the "Bodies" exhibit, because one can only imagine how specimens were obtained. I think there are too many unanswered questions with this one, and I would not attend.

John Colatch, Easton, PA

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My view-------I am a retired RN, a mother of 3, grandmother of 9, and great grandmother of 1. Not only that, but I seem to be the only one left of my generation in my family who visits the cemeteries scattered around Allegheny County where my ancestors are buried each Memorial Day weekend (there are 4 cemeteries).

On Memorial Day weekend there was a discussion among us-----about whether or not my 4 grandsons (2 who live here and 2 who live in Louisville KY) would visit the Science Center that day. It was decided to wait till a later visit of the Louisville contingent so that most of the day could be spent at the Science Center. The 12 yr old from Louisville is very interested in science, thinks he may be a Dr.some day, and is now working toward his Eagle Scout Badge. My son and I took all 4 boys to the Cemeteries, so that they could see the graves of these ancestors, 2 of whom fought in the Civil War. We felt it was educational for them, and also respectful to the deceased.

All these things considered, here is my opinion. Bodies of human beings should not be displayed for the purpose of selling tickets. It is especially disturbing to see bodies of those who have not, nor have their families, consented to this "posing" of them, positioned like action figures. I was uncomfortable with the "Bog People" display at the Carnegie Museum last year. This would be much worse. I congratulate Elaine Catz on her stand. That is one gutsy lady.

Judy Kueshner, Crafton

PS My late husband had a distant Uncle in the Ukraine who was a priest. In the early part of the 1900s, during the early reign of the Soviet Union, he disappeared. Relatives thought he had probably been sent to the "salt mines". Of course no body was found. I have a photo of this handsome man. I cannot imagine seeing him as an action figure.

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I disagree with the bodies exhibition. It is one thing for someone to give their body over to science upon death but these people were never identified, nobody knows the cause of death, no relatives were found, and more importantly, there is no record of these people authorizing their bodies to be used in this way. I think it is very disrespectful. What is wrong with our world?? Where are the morals and the respect for human life or death even?

Tanya Price, Pittsburgh

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I think it is a must for everyone to see this exhibit. Not only is it fascinating but educational as well. I live in south Florida and they were not going to have the exhibit. So on a trip to New York, I saw the exhibit was there and had the chance to see it there. What an experience. I would see it again. I don't understand why it is so controversial. It is the human body and all the structure of it. If someone decides to give their body to science for whatever purpose, it should be viewed as an honor. I cannot express enough how amazing this exhibit is.

Judy M, Deerfield Beach, FL

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Great! I can't wait to see what everyone is talking about!

Mark Paliotta, PGH

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i think this exhibit is not for everyone, but i cant wait to see it. i have read about the plastination in berlin a few years ago. i am glad to see that pittsburgh isnt afraid to have cutting edge art exhibits displayed in our city.

pete poninsky

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I can't wait for the exhibit to get here. Saw it in Ohio a couple of years ago and was truly amazed. I plan on visiting several times.

Sorry Ms. Catz felt she had to resign over something she has no control over. Her questions have been asked before over the years this exhibit has been around.

I am willing to bet the exhibit will be a HUGE success and am sorry a very few will get all the attention. (as usual)

P.S. This hardly warrants front page news, but will surely make more people aware of the exhibit. Cheap advertising!

Barbara Thoennes, Beechview

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I think it's nuts that people would be offended by this science exhibit. People should quit being "stiffs" in regards to stuff that is considered outside the box.

Where do I send my resume to fill the open position at the Science Center?

Matt Hogue, Elliott

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ALL I CAN SAY IS SHOCKING! WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO WHEN WE TAKE THE REMAINS OF SOMEONE'S LOVED ONE, SKIN IT AND PUT IT ON DISPLAY FOR THE SICK PEOPLE IN THE WORLD TO VIEW. GOD FORGIVE US.

DARLENE GUTHRIE, NEW CASTLE

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I saw the Bodies exhibit in New York, and it was fantastic. It is done with exceptional good tatse, and was atrue learning expierence, for anyone with a body. It was amazing to see the muscles organs and skeletal system at work. It is truly a learning exopierence. I am looking forward to returning, as the first trip through you are in awe!

Mariann Bulko, Donora

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Hello,

My cousins (a doctor and a physical therapist in Tampa) took their daughters to see the exhibit several years ago and the children (ages 7 and 11 at the time) had endless questions and marvelled over the exhibit. I have contacted the Science Center to inquire if the exhibit would be in Pittsburgh, as my daughter is in nursing school and this will be very beneficial to her education. I am looking forward to seeing the exhibit, and will do so with respect and awe. Thank you Carnegie Science Center, for bringing this to Pittsburgh!!!!

Susan Hribik, North Side

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The exhibit takes away any reverence for the dead. It's macabre and not a true expression of art. One has to think about who these people once were. If you put it into perspective, they were someone's child, someone's uncle or aunt. They once felt all the emotions we feel now. They once laughed at a joke, cried out in despair or prayed in fear to whatever deity they believed in. And now in death, they are put on display as an oddity, a sideshow for the sake of a buck. What a sad statement for humanity.

Nick Baich, Elizabeth