IVF, Stem Cells, and the Future of Kinship: Experimental Futures

Biological Relatives: IVF, Stem Cells, and the Future of Kinship (Experimental Futures)

by Sarah Franklin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5617 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	376 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and stem cell research have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of kinship and family. These technologies allow us to create new life and to manipulate genetic material in ways that were once unimaginable. As a result, they raise a host of ethical, legal, and social questions about the nature of kinship and the rights and responsibilities of parents and children.

IVF and the Redefinition of Kinship

IVF has already had a significant impact on the way we think about kinship. In the past, kinship was defined primarily by blood relations. However, IVF allows us to create children who are not genetically related to either of their parents. This has led to the emergence of new types of families, such as those with single parents, same-sex parents, and parents who have used a surrogate to carry their child.

The redefinition of kinship has also raised a number of legal challenges. For example, in some jurisdictions, children born through IVF are not automatically considered to be the legal children of their parents. This can create problems with inheritance, child support, and other legal matters.

Stem Cells and the Creation of New Life

Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have the potential to develop into any type of cell in the body. This makes them a valuable tool for treating a wide range of diseases and conditions. However, stem cells can also be used to create new life. For example, scientists have been able to use stem cells to create embryos that are genetically identical to existing individuals.

The creation of new life through stem cells raises a number of ethical concerns. For example, some people argue that it is wrong to create human life for the sole purpose of research or medical treatment. Others worry about the potential for stem cells to be used to create designer babies or to discriminate against certain groups of people.

The Future of Kinship

The development of IVF and stem cell research is likely to continue to have a profound impact on the future of kinship. These technologies have the potential to create new types of families and to change the way we think about the relationship between parents and children. They also raise a number of important ethical, legal, and social questions that we will need to address in the years to come.

As we move into the future, it is important to have a thoughtful and informed discussion about the ethical, legal, and social implications of IVF and stem cell research. By ng so, we can ensure that these technologies are used in a way that benefits society as a whole.

Biological Relatives: IVF, Stem Cells, and the Future of Kinship (Experimental Futures)

by Sarah Franklin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5617 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	376 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE