New Reproductive Assemblages: Understanding, Managing and ‘Using’ Human In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Abstract

This dissertation is a contribution to the ongoing discussion about the body and in vitro fertilization (IVF), also known as assisted reproduction or technologically enhanced reproduction. With help of empirical research on Dutch and Polish IVF-couples, Edyta Just puts into question the meaning of IVF and discusses the best way of managing the phenomenon and to use it to transform existing ideologies, norms, convictions en discussions on matters such as reproduction, (in)fertility, female/male bodies, sexuality and the reproduction technologies themselves. More specifically, Just engages in a polemic with radical feminists and the Vatican. Her polemic shows that theories and ways of discussing IVF used by radical feminists and the Vatican are cause of a negative and inaccurate assessment of IVF. Just shows moreover that other theories – of i.e. Rosi Braidotti and Gilles Deleuze – and discussions on IVF can result in a much more accurate and less negative evaluation and approach. In doing so Just tries to lay a basis for a more harmonious conceptualization of IVF; one that counts as a recommendation for the Vatican and radical feminists to change their own stand on IVF.