The Use of Genetic Information in Reproductive Decisions

The focus of this project is the question of whether couples have the right to use genetic information about their potential offspring and whether they have the right to avoid using such information. That is, to what extent do the ethical and legal concepts of procreative liberty entitle individuals to use and to ignore genetic knowledge in reproductive decisions at prematurity, preconception, preimplantation, and prenatal stages of decision making? To what extent can physicians, genetic counselors, or the government force or constrain an individual's reproductive choices? For the first time, this study will analyze the rights to ignore genetic information based on the theory of procreative liberty, taking issue with the existing state programs that strongly encourage or compel prenatal testing to avoid handicapped births. Based on Robertson's previous work exploring the ethical and legal meaning of procreative liberty, the emphasis of this project will be on legal doctrines and standards. The research methodology includes library and office study of relevant literature, analysis of court cases and statutes, and conferring with knowledgeable persons. Through publications in leading journals of diverse fields, this project will equip professionals to respect client wishes and make public policy for the use of genetics in reproductive decisions.