Reflective Journal Template – Topic Reflection
| Topic | Free Market Reproduction |
| What are the key points of contention on this topic? · Those who support free-market reproduction argue that it helps in the prevention of genetic disorder and increase the lifespan of a person · The proponents argue that the baby is not included in the decision, the gene pool is affected, and the undesired embryo is terminated
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| What side of the argument (stance) do you take on this topic?
· The side that I support is the proponent side, and this is following the impact of the practice on the community at large
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| What strong points does the other side of this topic have? · The other side argues that the practice is helpful as it helps in the eradication or prevention of genetic and medical conditions · The practice deters the future generation from inheriting a specific genetic condition | |
| What were the three most important things you took away from the topic?
1. Free market reproduction has both benefits and drawbacks
2. The other important lesson is that the technology used in this activity was meant for animals
3. Finally, almost all the essential elements of an embryo can be altered genetically giving rise to the new genetic composition
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| Question A Market Reproduction alludes to the practice whereby biotechnology is utilized to select the type of baby that the parents want. This process combines both in vitro fertilization and genetic engineering. Question B Act Utilitarian trust that whichever decision a person chooses, it should depict the highest total utility to a large number of persons. From this perspective, the concept of utility—select the actions that produce the highest level of happiness—must be applied in various cases. The excellent decision or action is the one that bears more utility compared to the existing actions. Question C According to Ly (2012), the increased capacity to manipulate and control embryos brings many prospects for enhancing the health of the future generation with the help of prenatal diagnosis. However, these prospects are faced by ethical dilemmas in society. Additionally, designer babies are perceived as the ultimate potential in the field of scientific research and the field of medicine. In support of the proponent side, Fordham (2010) believes that informed consent from the child determines if the parents violate the rights of an embryo in the process of free-market reproduction. Since embryos are not consulted, their various rights are violated, including the right to live. The act that brings happiness to many people is the right thing to do as per act utilitarian. Therefore, this theory supports the opponent side because this practice leads to the loss of life of many embryos. Act utilitarian, therefore, supports my stance on this issue. Question D In conclusion, the designer baby is a technology which has presented various views in society. However, act utilitarian may not support the act following due to termination of embryos and possible occurrence of errors.
References Ly, S. (2012). Ethics of Designer Babies. Embryo Project Encyclopedia. Fordham, B. A. (2010). Disability and Designer Babies. Val. UL, Rev., 45, 1473.
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