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Is human existence worth its consequent harm?
1Queen Mary, University of London, 708 Willoughby House, The Barbican, London EC2Y 8BN, UK. l.doyal@qmul.ac.uk
Journal of Medical Ethics
|October 2, 2007
Summary
It is argued that never being born is preferable due to life's inherent harms. While procreation may seem irresponsible, gambling on life's potential benefits for future generations is also rational.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of life
- Ethics of procreation
- Antinatalism
Background:
- David Benatar posits that non-existence is preferable to existence due to unavoidable suffering.
- He argues procreation, including via reproductive technology, is morally irresponsible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate Benatar's antinatalist arguments.
- To explore the ethical considerations of procreation and reproductive technologies.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical argumentation and ethical analysis.
- Critique of Benatar's claims on harm and non-existence.
Main Results:
- Benatar's view that non-existence is harm-free is challenged.
- The rationality of gambling on life's potential benefits versus guaranteed non-experience is introduced.
Conclusions:
- Benatar's arguments may weaken the moral relevance of procreation decisions by dismissing the potential rationality of such gambles.
- Foreseen harm remains a crucial factor in reproductive ethics.
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