Reproduction in the Genetic Age: A Proposed Scheme for the Regulation of Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Abstract

In the last several years, there have been a number of advances in the area of assisted (or advanced) reproductive technology (ART) that are so fantastic that they strain the credulity of even those well-versed in medicine and science. Moreover, the potential medical, legal, psychological, and social repercussions of the applications of these technologies cause most people who hear about their use to worry somewhat about the ramifications. In fact, part of the general fear of these technologies amongst the public is generated by the sense that they are not competent to make decisions, either for their own use of ART or about their opinions on its use by others. This fear is well-founded. The science used is complicated, and the concerns that result from its use are too far-flung and complex for any one person to be able to anticipate and then address in one cogent, overarching policy statement. These complexities lead to the conclusion that the federal government should become more involved in the regulation of the use of ART. More specifically, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should take an active role in regulating ART on a federal level.