“Designer Babies” and the Governance of Life: The Case of Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

“Designer Babies” and the Governance of Life: The Case of Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Ann Robertson, DrPH, Professor, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto

26 November 2008, 4:10 – 5:00 pm, Joint Centre for Bioethics, Great Hall, 88 College St.

Abstract: Emerging biotechnologies associated with the “new genetics” raise new possibilities for the enduring quest for biological mutability/human perfectibility. Using a Foucauldian perspective, this presentation considers the social, ethical and political implications of one of these biotechnologies – pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). These implications are discussed further in terms of the notion of “biological citizenship” in the context of a prevailing neo-liberal political rationality. The presentation concludes with a reflection on what social theory has to offer to a consideration of the ethical question “who may live?”

The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics Seminar Series is an accredited continuing education activity under CFPC and RCPSC programs. This bioethics seminar will be webcast at http://epresence.ehealthinnovation.org/epresence


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