Socializing the public: Invoking Hannah Arendt's critique of modernity to evaluate reproductive technologies

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Abstract

The article examines the writings of one of the most influential political philosophers, Hannah Arendt, and specifically focuses on her views regarding the distinction between the private and the public and the transformation of the public to the social by modernity. Arendt's theory of human activity and critique of modernity are explored to critically evaluate the social contributions and implications of reproductive technologies especially where the use of such technologies is most dominant within Western societies. Focusing on empirical studies on new reproductive technologies in Israel, it is argued, powerfully demonstrates Arendt's theory, and broadens the perspectives through which society should evaluate these new technologies towards a more reflective understanding of its current laws and policies and their affect on women more generally.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)53-60
Number of pages8
JournalMedicine, Health Care and Philosophy
Volume15
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Hannah Arendt
  • Israel
  • Reproductive health law and policy
  • Reproductive technologies

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • Education
  • Health Policy

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