Is Surrogacy Unethical? Exploring Religious and Ethical Perspectives

Is surrogacy unethical? The answer varies depending on who you ask. Religious organizations often frown upon the process of surrogacy, raising significant ethical debates.

Surrogacy in Christianity

Most Christians believe that children are a gift and not a right. While the Bible does not explicitly forbid the use of a surrogate, it raises questions about the ethical implications of surrogacy. Christians hold that children should come as a gift from God through a sexual relationship rather than being procured as a product. They emphasize that God created man and woman for procreation, leading some to view surrogacy as breaking the “one flesh” principle of Genesis 2:24. This is because surrogacy often involves using multiple sources to create a child, which may not always align with the intended parents being the biological mom or dad.

Surrogacy in Judaism

Judaism generally views surrogacy as degrading, believing that using another person as an incubator for human life devalues motherhood. Additionally, there are concerns about how surrogacy emphasizes economic differences. Surrogacy can be so costly that only wealthy couples might afford it, potentially leading poorer women to participate primarily for financial reasons. Although some studies suggest otherwise, the ethical dilemma remains a topic of debate within the Jewish community.

Surrogacy in Islam

Surrogacy in Islam presents divided views. According to Shariah Law, surrogacy or “renting the womb” is not allowed as it is comparable to adultery; a man’s sperm entering the body of a woman who is not his wife. Like Judaism, Islam posits that surrogacy dehumanizes the process of human creation by treating the sacred womb as a service that can be rented.

Psychological Effects and Ethical Considerations

Beyond religious perspectives, there are significant psychological effects associated with surrogacy. Studies conducted by the Center for Family Research at The University of Cambridge indicate that children born from surrogacy are more likely to suffer from depression and exhibit emotional and behavioral problems. This raises ethical considerations, such as whether or not to disclose to the child that another woman carried them to term, which could impact the child’s self-identity.

Balancing Ethical Considerations in Surrogacy Arrangements

On the other hand, some believe that if a couple desperately wants to become parents, hiring a willing woman as their surrogate is acceptable, provided that nobody is harmed in the process. Balancing ethical considerations in surrogacy arrangements involves ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and that the surrogate’s well-being is prioritized.

Do Religious Organizations Consider Surrogacy Unethical?

Do religious organizations consider surrogacy unethical? The answer largely depends on the specific beliefs and doctrines of each religion. While some view it as a compassionate solution for those unable to conceive naturally, others see it as morally problematic due to the reasons discussed above.

Final Thoughts

The question “Is surrogacy unethical?” does not have a one-size-fits-all answer. It is a deeply personal and complex issue influenced by religious beliefs, ethical considerations, and societal values. Understanding these diverse perspectives is crucial for anyone contemplating surrogacy as a path to parenthood.