A RE-EVALUATION OF CHRISTIAN ETHICAL STANCE ON ASSISTED REPRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY VIA HETEROLOGOUS INSEMINATION

Abstract

This study re-evaluates the Christian ethical stance on assisted reproduction technology via heterologous insemination otherwise known as artificial insemination by donor (AID). The Theories of Rational Choice and Consequentialism were adopted in this study. This study employed both the primary and secondary means of data collections. The relevant generalisations and conclusions were drawn purely on the gathered data made through hermeneutical and phenomenological approaches. Findings exposed that there is no unanimous consensus on the issue of heterologous insemination by the Christian ethicists and churches. Whereas Christian ethicists from some denominational churches like the Roman Catholics outrightly condemns it as unnatural, evil and sinful; others approach issues pertinent to it with ambivalence and rather opt for the homologous insemination. Yet, Christian ethicists from other denominational and protestant churches like the Anglicans embrace it under the marriage union: Various married couples are however passing through traumatic experiences owing to Infertility. This study advocates for the Christian churches cum universal acceptance of heterologous insemination on the basis that it is not outrightly condemned in the bible which is the major source of Christian Ethics; it is a means of honourably actualising and enhancing God’s creative order and mandate; the perceived social problems it creates are rather subjective; it is a decent means of overcoming infertility via genuine medical regimen; someone’s husband sperm may not prove effective under Artificial insemination by Husband (AID) and for the fact that it represents making the best out of a chaotic situation: Moreover, the churches that condemn it equally resort to it in secrecy. This study also advocates that religious institutions should embrace heterologous insemination and aid in the public campaign for its general acceptance. Government of nations should endeavour to assist in reducing the cost of the procedures for heterologous insemination at affordable prices; as well as enhance easy access to it by all and sundry.