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A critical examination of the ethical and social implications of surrogacy.Stolen Motherhood explores the complex issues surrounding surrogacy, arguing that it undermines women's dignity and commodifies children. Maria De Koninck, an expert on women's health, examines the contractual nature of surrogacy and its impact on gender equality and children's rights. This book makes a compelling case for an international ban on surrogacy, addressing key questions such as:
- The exploitation of women from poor countries
- The denial of children's rights to their origins
- The ethical implications of medicalized reproduction
This
insightful and
rigorously researched work is essential reading for professionals, scholars, and anyone concerned about
women's health,
social justice, and the
future of family.
About the author
Arielle Aaronson holds a diploma in Translation Studies at Concordia University in Montreal and an MA in Second Language Education from McGill University. She taught English in the Montreal public school system and has created educational material for second language learners. She is now a freelance translator and has translated seven books, including fiction and nonfiction for all audiences. Maria De Koninck is Professor Emeritus in Université Laval's Faculty of Medicine. First Chair of Women's studies, she taught community health and lectured on social determinants of health. Her research and publications focus on women's health, including childbirth, C-sections, reproductive technologies and midwifery, and on social health inequalities, poverty, and exclusion. She has 20 years' experience in international research and consulting projects on HIV-AIDS in West Africa, maternal mortality (including WHO), and vulnerability of young migrant girls in urban settings. She lives in Quebec City.
Summary
Surrogacy is growing rapidly even though no informed debate on the social impacts of its normalization has been conducted. By examining the “surrogacy process” and all its implications, Maria De Koninck reaches the conclusion that the best way forward is an international ban on surrogacy.
