The Dangers and Legalities of Consuming Human Flesh
Throughout history, cannibalism has been both a taboo and a topic of fascination. With the modern world, the practice is even more complicated due to legal and health considerations. This article explores why eating human flesh is generally not advisable, both from a health and legal standpoint.
Health Concerns of Human Consumption
Many people associate cannibalism with violence and legal consequences, but the primary health concern lies in the consumption of human brain. Meat from humans tends to be less palatable, often tainted with excessive sugar and processed substances that can affect its palatability and freshness. The smell, coupled with the texture and taste, often makes it seem diseased or unappealing.
However, there are some exceptions. Some factions of humans retain a natural taste for consuming others, but these groups are often violent and not to be approached alone. The risk of consuming human brain tissue increases the likelihood of developing prions, responsible for causing Kuru disease, akin to mad cow disease. This is a dangerous and potentially fatal condition that can lead to severe health issues.
Legal Implications of Cannibalism
Legal considerations add another layer of complexity to the issue. While cannibalism is illegal in most jurisdictions, the enforcement and punishment can vary widely. In the United States, for example, cannibalism is illegal in all but Idaho. However, the consuming of human flesh without the brain is typically not illegal. Instead, the primary legal concern centers around the consumption of the brain, which is associated with the transmission of prions and the risk of Kuru disease.
Washing the human flesh thoroughly and cooking it can mitigate some of the health risks. However, the flesh itself remains safe to consume. The brain, on the other hand, should be avoided to prevent the potential development of Kuru disease. Other internal organs are also risky and might be better suited for use in pet food. Some people might prefer to avoid eating many of the other internal organs due to their often unpleasant tastes and textures.
Practical Considerations
Moreover, personal hygiene and preparation are crucial. Human flesh picks up residue from daily life, including substances like breast implants, plastic surgery, and various cosmetics, which can pose additional health risks. Therefore, it is essential to wash the human flesh thoroughly before consumption.
If you choose to consume human flesh, it is recommended to cook it properly to kill any potential bacteria and to avoid rigorous application of cooking practices that could lead to illness. If consumption of the brain is unavoidable, immediate medical attention should be sought, as Kuru disease can be fatal.
From a practical standpoint, the consumption of human flesh should be avoided. The potential health risks, combined with the legal consequences, make it a risky endeavor. Even if you consume only the flesh itself, prion contamination remains a significant concern. Unless you can ensure the safety of the meat, it is best to avoid human flesh altogether.
The psychological and social implications of consuming a known human also warrant consideration. Eating a person you knew or had a connection to can lead to serious psychological and social issues. Even if you avoid these individuals, the mere act of consuming a human can bring about awkward situations, especially in society.
For those who continue to be curious, consuming less processed and more natural human flesh, such as the flesh of someone you have never met, might be a safer choice. However, it is always advisable to seek information from reputable medical and legal sources before making any decisions.