Bioethics: The Law, Medicine, and Ethics of Reproductive Technologies and Genetics from edX

Bioethics provides an overview of the legal, medical, and ethical questions around reproduction and human genetics and how to apply legal reasoning to these questions.

This law course includes interviews with individuals who have used surrogacy and sperm donation, with medical professionals who are experts in current reproductive technologies like In Vitro Fertilization and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, and bioethicists and journalists who study the ownership and use of genetic information within human tissue. Additional Harvard colleagues will also share with you their thoughts on topics such as disability law as it relates to reproductive technology.

While the law and ethics surrounding these technologies are a central component to this course, we also show you examples of the deeply personal and human side of these issues. Throughout the course, and with the help of law students, we will discuss leading legal cases in this field, which will illuminate the types of questions the law has struggled with – stretching and evolving over time. From the famous Baby M surrogacy case, to cases on the paternity of sperm donors, to a case related to the ownership of human tissue turned into a commercial product, and others. We will show you the ethical, legal, and rhetorical underpinnings, which have served as the basis for various court decisions over the past 20 or 30 years. We will also explore potential future technologies and their implications for society: genetic enhancements to increase our intelligence, let us live a hundred years longer, or make us immune to diseases – and the possibility of creating animal-human hybrids, for example a mouse with a humanized brain.

The content within this course is intended to be instructive, and show how legal reasoning has been applied, or could be applied, to questions related to parenthood, reproduction, and other issues surrounding human genetic material. The material organized within this course should be considered an authoritative overview, but is not intended to serve as medical or legal advice.

What's inside

Learning objectives

How the reproductive technology industry works, and issues raised related to buying and selling human reproductive materials
The law and ethics of surrogacy
Civil lawsuits when things go wrong with reproductive technology: wrongful birth and wrongful life lawsuits
The law and ethics of sperm donation and the legal status of sperm donors

Ethical and legal issues raised by human enhancement
The law and ethics of mixing human and animal genetic material
The ownership of human tissue and its underlying genetic information

How the reproductive technology industry works, and issues raised related to buying and selling human reproductive materials
The law and ethics of surrogacy
Civil lawsuits when things go wrong with reproductive technology: wrongful birth and wrongful life lawsuits
The law and ethics of sperm donation and the legal status of sperm donors
Ethical and legal issues raised by human enhancement
The law and ethics of mixing human and animal genetic material
The ownership of human tissue and its underlying genetic information

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Buying and Selling Reproductive MaterialsIdentify the major technologies, terms, and concepts relevant to understanding the buying and selling of reproductive materials. Identify key moral objections and potential legal solutions commonly applied to buying and selling eggs, sperm, and embryos. Discuss the moral objections and legal solutions to buying and selling reproductive goods as compared to other taboo trades (selling organs, prostitution, etc.).

Lesson 2: SurrogacyIdentify the major terms and concepts relevant to understanding surrogacy. Evaluate the degree to which surrogacy contracts should be legally enforceable. Discuss the legal reasoning behind real and hypothetical surrogacy cases.

Lesson 3: Wrongful Life and Wrongful BirthIdentify major terms and concepts including torts, damages, remedies, and liabilities. Identify the difference between claims to wrongful birth and wrongful life. Discuss issues with employing the conception of “harm” or “best interests” to reproduction.

Lesson 4: Sperm and Egg DonationDiscuss when can a sperm donor be held to be the legal father of, or assert such fatherhood over, children produced from his genetic material. Discuss whether or not anonymous sperm donation should be allowed at all. Identify and discuss key similarities and differences among related cases involving sperm donation.

Lesson 5: Sperm Donor AnonymityIdentify and discuss key ethical debates related to anonymous sperm donation. Discuss the way various countries around the world do or do not permit anonymous sperm donation. Discuss the rights of donor-conceived children. Discuss obligations of anonymous sperm donors to support the resulting child.

Lesson 6: EnhancementIdentify and evaluate different types of pre-birth and post-birth human enhancements. Discuss legal options available to regulate limit, or expand enhancements. Evaluate the difference between enhancing oneself versus choosing enhancements for another, such as a child.

Lesson 7: Human-Animal Hybrids and Patent of Human Genetic MaterialIdentify and discuss seven different examples of human-animal hybrids and the moral and ethical ideas that suggest regulating, limiting, or expanding hybrids. Identify key terms relevant to theories of property and default rules. Discuss key issues related to the ownership and use of human tissue and its underlying genetic information.

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Explores legal, medical, and ethical questions surrounding reproduction and human genetics

Taught by I. Glenn Cohen, a respected bioethicist at Harvard Law School

Provides a comprehensive overview of the legal, medical, and ethical issues related to reproduction and human genetics

Examines cutting-edge technologies in reproductive medicine, such as in vitro fertilization and preimplantation genetic diagnosis

Designed for students interested in pursuing careers in law, medicine, or bioethics

Requires students to have a basic understanding of biology and genetics

Reviews summary

Ethical considerations on genetics

According to students, this course delves into ethical considerations surrounding reproductive technologies and genetics. Overall, this course receives average ratings.

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Bioethics: The Law, Medicine, and Ethics of Reproductive Technologies and Genetics with these activities:

Review previous biology courses

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Review basic principles of biology and genetics to enhance comprehension of course material.

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Go over your notes from previous biology courses
Review textbooks or online resources on key concepts
Take practice quizzes or solve review questions to test your understanding
Connect with classmates or online forums to discuss and clarify concepts

Discussion group on ethical issues in reproductive technology

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Provides a platform for students to engage with peers and discuss diverse perspectives on ethical issues in reproductive technology.

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Prepare talking points on a specific ethical issue related to reproductive technology.
Participate in the discussion, presenting and defending viewpoints.
Listen actively to others' perspectives and engage in respectful dialogue.

Explore resources on bioethics

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Enhance your understanding of bioethical principles and their application in reproductive technologies.

Browse courses on Bioethics

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Find online courses or workshops on bioethics
Read articles or books from reputable sources on bioethics
Watch documentaries or videos that explore ethical issues in reproductive technologies

Five other activities

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Practice legal reasoning on bioethics cases

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Helps students practice and improve their legal reasoning skills in the context of bioethical issues.

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Identify the key legal and ethical issues in a bioethics case.
Analyze the facts of the case and apply relevant legal principles.
Develop and evaluate arguments for different legal outcomes.

Engage in peer discussions

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Foster critical thinking and develop your ability to articulate ethical arguments through discussions with peers.

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Form or join a study group with classmates
Choose a topic for discussion based on course material
Research and prepare your arguments
Engage in respectful and open-minded discussions

Design a hypothetical case study

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Develop your analytical skills and understanding of ethical complexities by creating a hypothetical case study.

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Identify a specific ethical issue related to reproductive technologies
Create a detailed scenario involving fictional characters and a complex ethical dilemma
Describe the ethical considerations and potential consequences of different actions
Present your case study to peers or the instructor for feedback

Assist at a fertility clinic or research center

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Gain practical insights into the ethical dimensions of reproductive technologies by volunteering in a relevant setting.

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Research and identify fertility clinics or research centers offering volunteer opportunities
Contact the organization and inquire about available volunteer roles
Attend training or orientation sessions
Assist with administrative tasks or interact with patients or researchers

Research and present on ethical issues in a specific reproductive technology

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Deepen your understanding and develop your research and presentation skills by exploring a specific ethical issue in reproductive technologies.

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Select a specific reproductive technology and identify an ethical issue related to it
Conduct thorough research using credible sources
Analyze the ethical implications and consider different perspectives
Prepare a presentation to share your findings and engage in discussion
Present your research to classmates, the instructor, or a wider audience

Career center

Learners who complete Bioethics: The Law, Medicine, and Ethics of Reproductive Technologies and Genetics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Bioethicist

The Bioethics course delves into the ethical, legal, and social implications of advancements in reproductive technologies and genetics. Bioethicists apply their knowledge of these complex issues to advise policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public on the responsible use of these technologies. By taking the course, one can gain a deep understanding of the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that guide decision-making in this rapidly evolving field, positioning oneself for a successful career as a Bioethicist.

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Genetic Counselor

The Bioethics course offers valuable insights for those pursuing a career as a Genetic Counselor. The course explores the ethical implications of genetic testing and counseling, as well as the legal considerations surrounding genetic information. By gaining knowledge of these ethical frameworks, individuals can provide informed guidance to patients and families facing complex decisions related to genetic health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Genetic Counselor

Reproductive Lawyer

This comprehensive course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Reproductive Lawyer, who specializes in the legal aspects of reproductive technologies and genetics. The course examines the legal frameworks governing surrogacy, sperm and egg donation, wrongful birth and wrongful life lawsuits, and the ownership of human tissue. By understanding these legal complexities, individuals can effectively advocate for their clients' rights and navigate the legal challenges that arise in this specialized field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Reproductive Lawyer

Embryologist

The Bioethics course provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical and legal issues surrounding reproductive technologies. Embryologists play a crucial role in the laboratory aspects of these technologies, and understanding the ethical dimensions of their work is essential. This course equips individuals with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the ethical complexities of embryo handling, genetic testing, and other laboratory procedures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embryologist

Science Policy Analyst

The Bioethics course explores the legal, ethical, and social implications of advancements in reproductive technologies and genetics. Science Policy Analysts specializing in these areas evaluate and develop policies that regulate and guide the use of these technologies. The course provides a thorough understanding of the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that inform policymaking, enabling individuals to make informed contributions to the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Analyst

Healthcare Ethicist

Healthcare Ethicists analyze and provide guidance on the ethical issues that arise in healthcare settings. The Bioethics course helps build a foundation for this role by examining the ethical considerations surrounding reproductive technologies and genetics. By understanding the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that guide decision-making in these areas, individuals can contribute to the development of ethical policies and guidelines in healthcare organizations.

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Patent Lawyer

This comprehensive course offers valuable insights for those interested in a career as a Patent Lawyer specializing in the field of biotechnology. The course examines the legal frameworks surrounding patents for reproductive technologies and genetic material. By understanding these legal complexities, individuals can effectively represent clients and navigate the legal challenges that arise in this specialized field.

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Biomedical Engineer

The Bioethics course explores the ethical implications of advancements in reproductive technologies and genetics. Biomedical Engineers working in these fields need to be aware of the ethical dimensions of their work. The course helps build a foundation by providing an understanding of the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that guide decision-making in these areas.

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Journalist

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Journalists specializing in science and health reporting. The course provides an overview of the ethical and legal issues surrounding reproductive technologies and genetics, enabling journalists to accurately and sensitively report on these complex topics. By understanding the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that guide these fields, individuals can contribute to informed public discourse.

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Policymaker

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Policymakers working on issues related to reproductive technologies and genetics. The course provides an overview of the ethical and legal considerations surrounding these fields, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions and develop effective policies.

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Law Professor

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Law Professors specializing in reproductive law or bioethics. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the legal frameworks and ethical considerations surrounding these fields, enabling law professors to stay current with the latest developments and effectively teach their students.

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Research Scientist

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Research Scientists working in the field of reproductive technologies and genetics. The course explores the ethical considerations surrounding these technologies, providing a broader perspective on the research and development process. By understanding the ethical frameworks and legal precedents that guide research, individuals can contribute to responsible and ethical scientific advancements.

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Insurance Underwriter

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Insurance Underwriters specializing in reproductive technologies or genetics. The course provides an understanding of the ethical and legal considerations surrounding these fields, enabling underwriters to assess risks and make informed decisions.

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Physician

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Physicians who provide care in the field of reproductive medicine or genetics. The course offers insights into the ethical considerations surrounding these technologies, enabling physicians to make informed decisions and provide sensitive and ethical care to their patients.

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Clinical Research Coordinator

The Bioethics course may be helpful for Clinical Research Coordinators working in the field of reproductive technologies or genetics. The course provides insights into the ethical considerations surrounding these technologies, enabling research coordinators to ensure that clinical trials are conducted ethically and responsibly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Research Coordinator