ABSTRACT
This chapter considers how the routine use of various forms of reproductive technology may affect women's autonomy. It follows the usual convention and restricts discussion of reproduction to the social and biological activities associated with producing babies. The chapter reviews the various examples of the extent of current technology use and biomedical values in reproductive activities to clarify the context into which tine so-called new reproductive technologies are introduce. It discusses the concept of relational autonomy that is intended to supplant the prevailing individualistic conception of autonomy and address some of the puzzles we have identified. A conception of relational autonomy helps explain why the expression of an informed preference is not an adequate measure of autonomous choice, for it makes visible the ways in which social norms often condition preferences and also make alternative choices inconceivable.
