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Updated: Feb 28, 2026
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Published on: October 13, 2018
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Summary
The expressivist argument suggests using biotechnology to prevent births of disabled individuals devalues existing disabled people. This article examines the argument, its counter-arguments, and reveals selection is based on characteristics, strengthening the disvalue claim.
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Philosophy of Medicine
- Disability Studies
Background:
- The expressivist argument posits that using biotechnologies for prenatal disability selection devalues individuals with those disabilities.
- This argument has generated significant debate and renewed interest in bioethical discussions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present and critically analyze the expressivist argument concerning prenatal disability selection.
- To examine existing counter-arguments and explore neglected aspects of the debate.
- To assess the continued relevance and strength of the expressivist argument.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis of the expressivist argument and its underpinnings.
- Examination of counter-arguments and their focus.
- Identification and analysis of overlooked considerations in the debate.
Main Results:
- The expressivist argument is supported by a broad range of considerations, not solely those typically addressed by counter-arguments.
- A key overlooked aspect is that foetal selection is based on characteristics of living persons with disabilities, not just biological traits.
- This nuanced understanding strengthens the claim that prenatal selection expresses a disvaluing of individuals with disabilities.
Conclusions:
- The expressivist argument retains significant force due to the nature of foetal selection criteria.
- Further ethical consideration is needed regarding the implications of selecting based on characteristics associated with disability.
- The debate on biotechnology and disability selection requires a more comprehensive understanding of the expressivist perspective.
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