Chapter 3

The Moral Status of Gametes and Embryos: Storage and Surrogacy

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Technology Changes Things

• It changes options for reproductive choices. • It can separate roles of genetic mother and

gestational mother. • The social mother may be different from

either of the above. • Babies might have 5-6 parents (see Table 3-1)!

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Technology Changes Things

• Decision points have also multiplied. • Many steps can be completed in the lab which

allows different decision points about having a baby.

• We are not prepared to deal with all of the changes conceptually, emotionally or ethically.

• Yet, we must be prepared to make decisions.

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There is a need to Examine the Moral Community

• There is a need to decide the boundaries of the moral community.

• Who counts in the moral community? • One must take the members of this

community into account as we make decisions.

• The issue goes beyond deontology or utilitarianism.

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Thinking about Moral Standing

• Moral standing goes beyond cruelty. • It addresses moral dignity and respect. • Are children full members of the moral

community? • What is the actual moral standing of children? • Uncertainly exists about the moral standing of

embryos.

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Technology and Attitudes

• Technology changes our attitude about the embryo.

• It may also change levels of commitment, emotional attachment, and parenting.

• Is there a difference between attitudes toward genetic and adopted children in light of technology?

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Questions about Attitudes towards Embryos and Babies

• What is the status of a frozen pre-embryo? • Should a pre-embryo be given the same status

as a human being? • When does a baby become a member of the

moral community?

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Table 3-2 Moral Reference Groups

What About Surrogate Contracts?

• Should surrogate contracts be held in the same level of trust as any contract?

• What if a surrogate’s life is endangered by the pregnancy?

• What about those surrogates who want contact with the child?

• Courts are struggling with these difficult issues.

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The Need to Stretch Our Thinking

• It is too heavy handed to stop technology progress because we do not have defined ethics.

• But it is not enough to leave it to the status quo.

• Therefore, we must explore the issues and try to come to consensus.

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In Summary…