The New Reproductive Technology: Problem or Solution?

Abstract

Feminist literature in the last two decades has criticised the increasing medicalisation of reproduction (Gordon, 1977; Ehrenreich and English, 1978; Ruzek 1978; Petchesky, 1980). To many feminist scholars, reproductive technologies are just a new form of medical interference with women’s bodies. In this chapter I examine the arguments of a variety of books and articles which present the feminist analysis of technology and procreation. In addition, I draw on the proceedings of several conferences which have dealt with the impact of reproductive technologies on the lives of women.