MENSEN IN WORDING Theologische, ethische en pastorale ...

conception is acceptable under strict conditions, one of them being a probable positive effectupon the well-being of future generations. Several commission members, however, hold theopinion that the use of pre-embryo's for research alone is unacceptable, for thius wouldt meanpurely instrumental use of individual human life.Artificial reproductive techniques The confession of the church that it is God whogives life, does not necessarily mean that humanity may not make use of artificial reproductivetechniques. IVF may be a blessing for a childless coulpe, albeit we must guard againsttoo high an expectation. The commission places question marks around so called specialapplied circumstances, such as the donation of sex cells or the application of reproductivetechnologies outside an enduring and heterosexual relationship, but finds a firmpronouncement premature, and pleas for continuing reflection in church and society.Prenatal diagnosis and selective abortion Standing at the top of the list is that wemust indeed attempt to prevent handicaps and other deformities. However, in the case of apregnancy already underway, this guideline may conflict with other guidelines, such as that ofthe protectworthiness of the human conceptus and that of solidarity with people who havehandicaps and their families. In such a difficulty one must be weighed against the other. Theinterest of the child-in-process must prevail. The interruption of pregnancy upon the basis ofdiagnostic indication is therefore only justifiable in situations of very severe handicaps, i.e.those who may be said to be "in conflict with life itself". The commission is aware that thisstandpoint may hold implications for the contemporary practice of abortion in TheNetherlands.October, 1991