Abstract

In this article I am defending the following theses: I. The problem of cloning should already be taken seriously. II. The possibilities opened up by cloning are not all to be regarded from the start as perverse. There may be understandable reasons for wishing to clone. III. Regarding the ethical assessment of cloning there needs to be an examination of whose rights could be harmed. 1) The rights of the copy would not be harmed, because cloning is the very reason for his or her ability to complain. 2) The rights of the original could be harmed if a copy is made against his or her will. This is not a problem if his or her consent is given. 3) The rights of society could be harmed in various ways through the proliferation of cloning technology. This does not however justify a complete prohibition on cloning. IV. In order to reasonably deal with the technology of cloning there needs to be a reassessment of old structures of responsibility. Why shouldn't the doctor who applies this technology have, as "creator", a special responsibility for the child?