Title | The Full Imago Dei |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2006 |
Authors | Cochran, EA |
Journal Title | Journal of Religion, Disability & Health |
Volume | 9 |
Pages | 21–46 |
ISSN | 1522-8967 |
Abstract | Abstract A desire to eliminate suffering leads many contemporary bioethicists to argue that pregnancy should be terminated when an embryo has been determined to have a genetic condition that could lead to a cognitive disability. This paper demonstrates that the practice of terminating pregnancy in these circumstances is a particular instantiation of the operation of what Michel Foucault has identified as bio-power, which works implicitly through practices such as this one to establish a normative vision of the human person and a corresponding definition of disability. The operation of biopower undermines this practice's internal goals: Rather than expanding choice and eliminating suffering, this practice increases the suffering and limits the choices of families with disabilities. John Wesley's account of scriptural holiness provides a resource for establishing an understanding of personhood that effectively counters the workings of biopower in decision-making regarding disabilities and prenatal testing, and thereby challenges society's views of disability. |
URL | http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J095v09n03_03 |
DOI | 10.1300/J095v09n03_03 |
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