TEST-TUBE BABIES? It's Time We Ask Why! - Clayton D Steep - September-October 1982

Clayton D Steep

Increasing numbers of babies are being born as a result of test-tube technology. But why has the real cause of infertility been overlooked? Everyone can understand the desire of the childless couple to have a child of their own. No one can fault that desire. It is legitimate. In fact, it is that very legitimacy that has spurred development of test-tube baby technology. As the number of startling accomplishments in the field of artificially induced reproduction grows, so does a raging controversy. Advocates, under the banner of humane considerations, urge accelerated research and experimentation. Critics claim that whatever good may be accomplished is far outweighed by the dangers of humans "playing God." "Where will it all stop?" they ask, charging that tampering with the beginnings of life is opening a Pandora's box that will lead to frightening consequences. The debate is proving to be much more than a mere tempest in a test tube. It is coming to involve scientists, laymen, right-to-life organizations, theologians, feminist groups, moralists, law-makers and many others. How did this controversy get started anyway? If there is a better solution to the problem faced by infertile couples, what is it? - Information Supplied By: Herbert W Armstrong Library