Introduction
In the context of surrogacy, a woman’s work is equal to other types of labor since it is characterized by the presence of interested parties and is based on the voluntary participation of the woman. Nevertheless, there are significant differences between surrogacy and other commercial activities. Primarily, this applies to ethical issues and the possible adverse effects of such work. Elizabeth S. Anderson states: “When women’s labor is treated as a commodity, the women who perform it are degraded” (Vaughn, 434). In this instance, the possibility of psychological harm to women due to such activities is crucial. In contrast to other jobs, surrogacy has inherent risk factors for a woman’s psyche. Despite the voluntary nature of this work, problems may arise after both parties agree to the contract terms, which is a potential cause of several legal and moral issues.
Discussion
Surrogacy is distinguished because it relates directly to aspects of life related to the human perspective on life and emotions. Anderson states: “By engaging in the transfer of children by sale, all of the parties to the surrogate contract express a set of attitudes toward the children which undetermined the norms of parental love” (Vaughn, 435). Therefore, the adverse effects of surrogacy apply not only to women but to all participants in such contracts. In this case, the issues associated with surrogacy are critical to the individual’s psyche and the functioning of entire social units. Thus, this type of labor is different from others and is a potential cause of moral dilemmas and psychological problems for all parties to the contract.
From a legal standpoint, the work of a woman child-bearer has significant similarities with other types of work. In this regard, Anderson says: “But no one knows how to predict who will suffer grave psychological damage from surrogacy, and the main forms of duress encountered in the industry are emotional rather than financial” (Vaughn, 440).
Conclusion
Hence, the proper conduct of surrogacy-related activities does not guarantee the absence of potential problems for women. In addition, the appropriate legislation is not a universal factor equating this activity to others. Much of the activity associated with surrogacy is done in secret, making direct violations of the law possible. Anderson generally does not focus on the moral problems associated with working for one’s benefit. The focus is on surrogacy’s moral problems, which differ from other activities because of its direct connection to human instincts and attitudes.