New reproductive technologies or assisted reproduction are procedures that make procreation possible without sexual relations, the most well-known being artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization ('test-tube' babies). Use of these new techniques raises the issue of the genetization of kinship ties, in contrast with adoption or procedures involving the donation of gametes (eggs and sperms) and embryos. Based both on ethnographic research with users and professionals in assisted reproduction and also on bibliographic research, the article discusses the concepts of human nature implied in the biologization and genetization of kinship through these new reproductive technologies.
new reproductive technology; kinship; genetization; biologization