Global Principles, Local Obligations: Reproductive Ethics in Affluent Societies and Developing Countries

Abstract

This essay is an intercultural dialogue in reproductive ethics. The paper, which argues from both developed and developing world perspectives, addresses the question of what should be done when confronted with the possibility of giving birth to a severely disabled child. The author argues that such a life should not be considered because of the economic circumstances in most developing countries. This is contrary to the view sometimes advanced in affluent societies that the prevention of such a birth should not necessarily be considered. The author, however, agrees that the principle of acceptable outlook could be employed in both economic settings but with a variable degree of moral compliance without suggesting that certain lives are better than others.