Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the exhibition?
BODY WORLDS aims to educate the public about the inner workings of the human body and show the effects of poor health, good health and lifestyle choices. It is also presented in the hopes that it will stimulate curiosity about the science of anatomy.

Couldn't I learn just as much from books or models of human anatomy?
Real human bodies show the details of disease and anatomy that cannot be shown with models. They also allow us to understand how each body has its own unique features, even on the inside. Visitors are drawn to real specimens in a way that they are not to plastic models. One of the special features of museums and science centers is that they offer people a chance to see the real thing in a safe and informative environment.

What is Plastination?
Invented by a scientist and anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens in 1977, Plastination is the groundbreaking method of halting decomposition and preserving anatomical specimens for scientific and medical education. Plastination is the process of extracting all bodily fluids and soluble fat from specimens, replacing them through vacuum forced impregnation with reactive resins and elastomers, and then curing them with light, heat, or certain gases, which give the specimens rigidity and permanence. For more information about Dr. Gunther von Hagens, the inventor of the Plastination technique and creator of BODY WORLDS exhibitions, go to www.bodyworlds.com.

Where did the specimens on display come from? Will we know who the plastinates are or how they died?
The BODY WORLDS exhibitions rely on the generosity of body donors; initials who bequeathed that, upon their death, their bodies could be used for educational purposes in the exhibition. All of the full-body plastinates and the majority of the specimens are from these body donors; some specific specimens that show unusual conditions come from old anatomical collections and morphological institutes. As agreed upon by the body donors, their identities and causes of death are not provided. The exhibition focuses on the nature of our bodies, not on providing personal information.

Why are the plastinates posed the way they are?
The poses of the plastinates have been carefully thought out and serve educational aims. Each plastinate is posed to illustrate different anatomical features. For instance, the athletic poses illustrate the use of muscle systems while playing sports. The poses allow the visitor to relate the plastinate to his or her own body.

Where else has BODY WORLDS been exhibited?
There are three BODY WORLDS exhibitions, which have been viewed by nearly 22 million people throughout the world. BODY WORLDS exhibitions have been displayed in Asia, Europe, and North America. Past U.S. venues include Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston and Philadelphia.

Will I be able to touch any of the plastinates?
While you will be able to get very close to the plastinates, as a rule, visitors are not allowed to touch them. At a certain area in the exhibition, however, visitors have the option of touching a select group of plastinated organs to better understand both the human anatomy and the process of Plastination.

Is this exhibition appropriate for children?
Nearly 22 million people, including children, have viewed the BODY WORLDS exhibitions around the world. It is important to note that the exhibition includes full-body plastinates with exposed genitals. The exhibition is recommended for school groups in Grades 5 and up. Children under 13 must be accompanied by responsible adults during their visit to BODY WORLDS.

What educational materials are provided?
Teachers will wish to prepare both their students and their adult supervisors carefully for their BODY WORLDS experience. Educator materials are available upon request and online.

Why is it important for the public to see these exhibitions?
We believe that when people understand more about how the body works and how it can break down, they are more likely to choose healthy and sustainable lifestyles. We also hope it will inspire visitors to learn more about the life sciences. Knowledge about what the human body looks like and how it functions is basic life science information that should be available to everyone. During the run of the exhibition we will be constantly connecting education and medical professional to ensure they have the opportunity to experience the exhibition.

Is the Maryland Science Center advocating or supporting organ donation or body donation for Plastination?
The Maryland Science Center leaves the decision about organ donation and body donation for Plastination entirely up to visitors.

Why isn't the exhibition included in general admission?
As a non-profit organization and to bring world-class exhibitions to its visitors, occasionally there is an additional fee.

Can I take photographs or film in the exhibition?
Photography and filming, including pictures taken with your cell phones, are not allowed in BODY WORLDS, except by accredited members of the media. We thank you for your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.