Procreative beneficence (PB) is a decision-making principle referring to reproductive rights. It poses that “couples (or single reproducers) should select the child, of the possible children they could have, who is expected to have the best life based on the relevant, available information (Savulescu, 2001, p. 413). In other words, the principle signifies that parents are endowed with a right to test their genes and prepare themselves for the child they want to have. Sticking to this notion, one may bring a healthy child to life, avoiding different genetic and similar disorders (Savulescu, 2001). Adults have a meaningful right to decide how and when to procreate; hence, they are given such options as natural birth, IVF, and others. It means that if parents choose IVF, they may select an embryo without a genetic predisposition to any disease. PB solely presumes a responsibility of caring for one’s health to produce sound children.
On the other hand, procreative beneficence may be perceived as harmful to a child. Savulescu (2001) explains it by stating that parents may eventually be “using the child as a means” (p. 422). Speaking broadly, it implies that by choosing a perfectly healthy embryo without any genetic disorder disposition, one wishes him the best life. However, parents may do it intentionally to realize their ambitions via a child. Therefore, the principle is controversial in this sense as it limits a future individual’s freedom. When adults place much expectation on their offspring, they could be increasingly disappointed if, in reality, the image of the desired child will be distorted. However, the practice of procreative beneficence is not judged as anyone having equal rights to procreation.
Reference
Savulescu, J. (2001). Procreative beneficence: Why we should select the best children.Bioethics, 15(56), 413-426.