Selecting for disability
Some deaf parents have taken steps to ensure that they have deaf children, a choice that contrasts with the interest that other parents have in enhancing the traits of their children. Like many in the deaf community, they do not see deafness as a disability. They see it as something that defines their cultural identity and signing as a sophisticated, unique form of communication.
Do parents have an obligation to enhance the capacities of their children to the extent that doing so is within their power?
Despite the fact that deafness does not disable the possibility of meaningful life and even though society can alleviate some of the disadvantages that attach to deafness, other moral considerations suggest that parents should not ordinarily take steps to have children with disabilities, including deaf children.
If we do not allow couples to positively select for a disability, are we indirectly removing their dignity, and labeling them as unfit for this society?
Do parents have an obligation to enhance the capacities of their children to the extent that doing so is within their power?
Despite the fact that deafness does not disable the possibility of meaningful life and even though society can alleviate some of the disadvantages that attach to deafness, other moral considerations suggest that parents should not ordinarily take steps to have children with disabilities, including deaf children.
If we do not allow couples to positively select for a disability, are we indirectly removing their dignity, and labeling them as unfit for this society?