Overview

Outer Origin examines the individual, social, and spiritual implications of ectogenesis, also known as artificial womb technology. Formerly considered the topic of science fiction, such devices are currently being developed and will soon be a medical reality. This book offers readers information on the status of this technology and considers the ways in which it may one day fully replace human gestation. Ectogenesis has previously been assessed with the future child in mind, but this book, instead, envisions what it might mean for women. It explores the value of pregnancy and childbirth in the twenty-first century and questions the notion that artificial wombs will lead to full equality of the sexes. Outer Origin seeks to elevate the maternal experience by reflecting on the meaning of reproductive technology in our lives. People everywhere must ponder the significance of what has heretofore been their most common link--shared natality and birth. If not, Homo sapiens will enter a deep dive into the unknown--that of not being of woman born.

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9781666772104

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Reviews

"""Ectogenesis is a controversial topic that has a strong impact on women, humanity, and society. Laura Johnson Dahlke discusses the technology of ectogenesis and compares this model of pregnancy and gestation to women and the human childbirth experience. In this book, Dahlke delivers a riveting exploration of motherhood, ethics, and societal norms which are challenged, leaving the reader to reflect with their own thoughts and feelings on the future of childbirth and reproductive technology."" --Debra A. Cherubini, associate professor of nursing, Salve Regina University ""Outer Origin is a comprehensive yet readable examination of ectogenesis. Laura Johnson Dahlke's interdisciplinary approach challenges the reader to consider this topic beyond the fields of science and technology. Her analysis is also timely, as she is writing about technology before we are forced to contend with it."" --Taten Shirley, associate professor of humanities, Faulkner University ""Elegantly written and impeccably researched, Outer Origin urges readers to consider the social, moral, and ethical consequences of 'extra-uterine destining.' Using the disparate lenses of history, philosophy, science, literature, feminism, and more, Laura Johnson Dahlke has created an absorbing and wide-ranging study of childbirth and what was once only the stuff of sci-fi novels. An essential, provocative read!"" --Jody Keisner, associate professor of English, University of Nebraska at Omaha"

Author Information

Laura Johnson Dahlke is a graduate of Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. Her publications are in the fields of pregnancy, childbirth, and maternity care. She specializes in the intersection of the human-technology relationship and reproduction.

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