FDA Regulation of Condoms: Minimal Scientific Uncertainty Fuels the Moral Conservative Plea to Rip a Large Hole in the Public's Perception of Contraception

Abstract

This paper surveys the history of condom use, the underlying science, the FDA regulation of condoms and the recent debate on condoms and their effectiveness in preventing disease. In articulating the debate, perspectives of the Catholic Church are propounded as examples of arguments hinging exclusively on religious moral premises. The Church's perspectives are revealing in the way that they shape so called medical or scientific recommendations against condom use. Accordingly, this paper explores the conclusions of social conservatives that, assuming condoms should be prohibited; the key alternative is abstinence and chastity.