Abstract

This paper explores some of the ethical implications of artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization. In both cases the emphasis is on the interests of the potential child. It concludes that in neither case is great optimism or great pessimism appropriate. About AID, much of the legal and ethical concern has been other than child-centered, and has focused mainly on the interests of parents and donors. Three aspects expecially remain troubling: donor selection, record-keeping and disclosure and the testing of frozen semen. About further IVF research, approval appears justified, as long as remaining concerns about risk/safety and need are satisfied.