In such cases autopsies should be performed because the good of the community demands it and because increased medical knowledge is needed. If the next of kin were not willing to approve the autopsy, the court could order that the autopsy be performed. In cases of violent death or unattended death an autopsy is required by law, no matter what wishes were expressed by the next of kin. Usually, however, the purpose of an autopsy is not to trace the etiology of a rare disease nor to discover unknown or violent causes of death. More frequently, autopsies are performed mainly to help health care professionals achieve a higher level of effectiveness in the care of the living.
Autopsies are especially useful for the common good when performed in teaching hospitals.
The autopsy rate of a hospital is usually a sign of concern for excellence and offers a gauge of professional integrity and interest in scientific advancement. Through autopsies, the diagnosis and treatment a person received can be evaluated and staff members encouraged to observe a high level of proficiency. Religious Views From a Christian point of view, the practice of allowing autopsies and one's body for scientific research is acceptable and even to be encouraged if a true need exists. It must be explained with intelligence and respect that to consent explicitly or tacitly to serious damage to the integrity of the corpse in the interest of those who are suffering, is no violation of the reverence due to the dead. According to the prevailing opinion of Jewish scholars, autopsies can be condoned only when there are indications that the information accruing from them may be of value in saving the life of another individual.