On Motherhood: An Ethical and Social Perspective

Abstract

The ongoing discussions in contemporary times revolve around the ethical considerations surrounding the utilization of the wombs of brain-dead women as surrogates to assist women who are unable to conceive. These debates coexist with arguments advocating for the mother's free will and consent during maternity, while also cautioning against the potential denial of such rights. Additionally, various philosophical debates inquire about the classification of the relationship between the foetus and the maternal organism, as well as the definition of the connection between the latter and the baby being carried in her womb.

This paper aims to examine the ethical dimensions of the journey of motherhood. While the baby typically receives significant attention, the same cannot be said for the mother. This raises inquiries such as whether the mother is merely a means to an end, merely a vessel carrying the baby. While many individuals are eager to embrace the baby, where are those who are willing to support the mother? This paper seeks to address these questions through the lens of Simone De Beauvoir's theory of the "Other" as presented in her book, "The Second Sex.”