THE PRACTICE OF SURROGACY

THE PRACTICE OF SURROGACY AND KANT’S CATEGORICAL IMPERATIVE: A PHILOSOPHICAL EVALUATION

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Abstract
This project investigates the ethical implications of surrogacy by applying Immanuel Kant's categorical imperative. Surrogacy involves a woman carrying and giving birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple. The ethical debate surrounding surrogacy centers on issues such as reproductive autonomy, exploitation, and commodification of women's bodies. Immanuel Kant's moral philosophy, particularly the categorical imperative, provides a framework for assessing the ethics of surrogacy. The categorical imperative states that moral actions should be guided by rational principles that can be universally
applied without contradiction. It emphasizes treating individuals with dignity and respecting their autonomy. This project examines how the categorical imperative can be used to evaluate surrogacy. It explores whether surrogacy aligns with Kant's moral framework or if it presents conflicts. The analysis considers factors such as the intentions and treatment of surrogate mothers, the potential commodification of the child, and the long-term consequences for all parties involved. By applying Kant's categorical imperative to surrogacy, this project contributes to the ongoing discussion on the ethical aspects of surrogacy. The findings will provide insights into the compatibility of surrogacy with Kantian ethics and offer a broader understanding of the ethical considerations surrounding reproductive technologies and the human experience of procreation
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