Surrogacy: Liberating or limiting?

Type :

Term papers

Pages :

4 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

07/29/2009

Category :

Science & technology

Sub category :

Medical studies

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Summary :

Introduction
The multiple forms of surrogacy
Contradictory angles of the issue
Secondary problem presented by author
Coherent and relatable points
Opposing surrogacy
The role of governmental and health groups
Conclusion
Works cited

Abstract

Does surrogacy turn women into "reproductive vessels? " Does it liberate women to use their body as they choose, or are women becoming pawns in a scientific experiment? In the essay, Surrogate Motherhood: The Challenge for Feminists, the author, Lori B. Andrews, looks at the conflicting issues of female empowerment and females as slaves to the male dominated contemporary society. Among feminists there is no consensus as to if surrogacy is empowering or demeaning to women. The author argues, albeit not consistently, that opposing surrogacy is counter to many feminist platforms and by removing the right from the woman to bear a child and give it up, greater feminist stances will be undermined. This is the only logical conclusion. Individuals may oppose surrogacy on ethical, health or religious grounds, but no one should hide behind the guise of feminism. Feminism, at its very core, when stripped of the fringe factions and radicalism, is a movement in support of individualism and the right of one person, male or female, to do whatever he or she pleases with his or her body.

There are multiple forms of surrogacy. First, an anonymous or known donor can artificially inseminate a surrogate. Secondly, a surrogate can produce a child through natural conception and then give up the child, with a contract agreed upon before birth, to an adoptive couple. Andrews shows the differing points of view. The author outlines them as follows: the right to be a surrogate mother should not be denied to women because women should be permitted to do whatever they please with their bodies. Conversely, there seems to be a shared belief that women are being turned into 'breeding machines.' As technologies have advanced, women are being given more and more opportunities with reference to their reproductive options.