Embryo Selection in the Context of In Vitro Fertilization.

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Reproductive Technology
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics

Background:

• Catholic moral theology views in vitro fertilization (IVF) as problematic due to the artificial separation of procreative and unitive marital functions.
• Embryo selection (ES) within IVF is considered an injustice, treating embryos as commodities and infringing upon their right to life based on selected traits.
• The Church opposes the eugenic underpinnings of embryo selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the ethical implications of embryo selection (ES) in the context of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
• To analyze the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) for ES in the IVF industry.
• To explore the moral consequences of employing AI in ES from a Catholic bioethical perspective.

Main Methods:

• Commentary and ethical analysis.
• Examination of Catholic teachings on reproductive technologies.
• Discussion of the intersection between AI, IVF, and bioethics.

Main Results:

• The use of AI for ES in IVF intensifies the ethical concerns surrounding embryo treatment.
• AI-driven ES risks deepening disrespect for human lives within a technocratic paradigm.
• The application of AI in ES may exacerbate existing moral objections to embryo selection.

Conclusions:

• Catholic bioethicists must advocate for the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life with greater emphasis.
• The integration of AI into ES necessitates a critical ethical evaluation aligned with Catholic principles.
• Further consideration is required regarding the moral trajectory of AI in reproductive technologies.