081

Authors:

 Goodsir, Jane.

Title:

 Mothers of Invention?

Keywords:

 creativity / reproductive technology / telematics / identity globalisation

Abstract:

 This proposal is concerned with creativity, reproductive technology, the increasing impact of telematics, and consumer choice.

Rapid developments in reproductive technologies and telematics mean that new consumer choices are being facilitated in a way that is irrespective of traditional boundaries, frontiers, and - often- legislation. The term 'reproductive technology' refers to cloning, surrogacy, and other interventions such as fertility treatments, and artificial insemination.

Conceiving and raising children is seen (by many) as one of the most important creative acts that many of us ever undertake. Reproductive technologies mean that there is more choice - for some richer individuals - than ever before, leading to radical shifts in perception, and new possibilities, including commercial exploitation cutting across national boundaries.

Within the UK, Europe, the US and other countries, different legislation has been introduced attempting to control health and reproductive technologies in this ethically charged area reflecting moral unease and uncertainty. There is evidence that individuals are using the internet to seek information, bypass national controls, and to shop for new reproductive possibilities. For example, it is possible for both mother and father to decide to have a child without the messy business of pregnancy and childbirth. This raises the possibility of 'supplier' nations providing new technical , donor and surrogacy services.

This paper will examine the possible impacts of convergence of new technologies in the area of human reproduction, and their consequences in relation to richer and poorer communities globally. Themes discussed will include sense of self, human identity, consciousness, and the aesthetic dimension.
Goodsir, Jane. jg@j-chalkfarm.demon.co.uk Jane Goodsir is a social policy analyst., with a background in the arts, politics and non government organisations. She studied Art History at University College London, and subsequently studied policy sciences at the University of Bristol. She was Director of the national telephone information service Release, which specialised in provision of health and social information. She has also worked in UK universities as a lecturer, researcher and subsequently Dean. She has advised and given evidence to UK government committees concerned with social affairs. Her published work covers the arts and social affairs. Her current interests are the visual arts, communication and social affairs.