Moral for parents to conceive a child in order to save the life of a sibling

Full Answer Section

• Instrumentalization: Some argue that creating a child solely for the purpose of saving another is treating them as a means to an end, not a person with their own inherent value.
• Psychological Impact: The "savior sibling" might face pressure to donate and could experience emotional burdens if the donation is unsuccessful or has complications.
• Uncertainties: There's no guarantee a child will be a genetic match, and there are risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth for the mother.

Additional Considerations:

• Alternatives: Exploring all other options for a donor match, such as national registries, should be exhausted before considering this option.
• Emotional Support: Providing ongoing emotional support to both the existing child and the new child is crucial.
• Transparency and Communication: Open and honest communication with all children involved regarding the circumstances of their birth is important.

Finding a Balance:

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to conceive a child for this purpose is a deeply personal one for parents. Ideally, they should carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks, consider all available information, and seek guidance from medical professionals and ethicists.

Here are some resources that might be helpful:

• The National Marrow Donor Program (https://bethematch.org/support-the-cause/donate-blood-stem-cells/how-to-join-the-donor-registry/)
• The Hastings Center Bioethics Resource Center (https://www.thehastingscenter.org/)

Remember, there's no single "right" answer. The key is to approach this situation with compassion, careful consideration, and a commitment to the well-being of all children involved.

Sample Answer

This is a complex ethical dilemma with no easy answer. Here are some arguments to consider on both sides:

Arguments in Favor:

• Saving a Life: The most compelling argument is the potential to save the life of a critically ill child. A healthy sibling could provide a life-saving bone marrow transplant or other organ donation.
• Altruistic Intention: Parents may be motivated by a deep love for their existing child and a strong desire to give them a chance at survival.
• Informed Consent: In some cases, older children may be involved in the discussion and even express a desire for a sibling who could be a potential donor.