Human Reproductive Cloning: Possible Psychological Consequences.

The article focuses on the scientific and ethical considerations surrounding human reproductive cloning (HRC), using monozygotic (MZ) twins as the ideal natural human model for understanding cloning outcomes. It critiques the 1997 National Bioethics Advisory Commission (NBAC) report for overlooking MZ twin research, which shows that genetically identical individuals maintain distinct identities and close social relationships, challenging common objections to HRC regarding individuality and psychological harm. The paper argues that if HRC is proven safe and cost-effective, it could serve as an alternative to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and adoption for individuals and couples unable to conceive biologically, while emphasizing that health, ethical, and social concerns require ongoing careful evaluation. The author also highlights that cloned children would differ from their donors in generational context and environment, and that public attitudes toward HRC may evolve similarly to those toward IVF.