Beyond Birth: Exploring the Complexities & Potential Misuse of Artificial Womb Technology

Abstract

Artificial Womb Technology (AWT) promises revolutionary advancements in infertility treatments and neonatal care for premature infants. This paper conducts an examination of AWT's ethical, legal, social, environmental, economic, and cybersecurity implications. Methodologically, it integrates an extensive review of existing literature with a theoretical analysis of potential misuse patterns. The ethical discussion addresses concern about the commodification of human life, parental rights, and the disruption of natural birth processes. Legal challenges focus on the necessity for new regulations to govern usage, consent, and responsibility. Social implications highlight the potential impact on family dynamics and the risk of worsening existing inequalities, while the environmental considerations are centered on the resource demands, overpopulation and waste associated with AWT. Economically, AWT introduces new market opportunities while also raising concerns about commercialization and profit-driven misuse. Cybersecurity emerges as a critical, overlooked issue due to the sensitive nature of the data involved and the severe consequences of potential breaches. The theoretical analysis highlights the historical misuse patterns in digital health technologies, reinforcing the urgent need for stringent guidelines and policies to ensure the responsible implementation of AWT.