Magical Progeny, Modern Technology: A Hindu Bioethics of Assisted Reproductive Technology. By Swasti Bhattacharyya, 161 pp.

Excerpt

In Bhattacharyya’s well-written and wide-ranging exploration of Hindu bioethics, we are introduced to an interdisciplinary study of reproductive technology through the lens of Hindu mythology, philosophy, theology, and medicine. It is a rich read. Quoting Julius Lipner, the author states from the outset the misconception that “Hinduism” can be understood as a singular referent, for Hinduism is like a “huge banyan tree that has lost every trace of the original trunk” (26). He goes on to say that “the branches of this tree cascade huge aerial roots, they burrow into the earth below and appear as if each were a separate banyan trunk. Lipner’s metaphor of the widespread, interlinked tree captures the diversity and multifaceted nature of Hindu traditions”(26). Thus, Hinduism is “a conglomeration of movements, not a position; processes, not a result; growing traditions, not a fixed revelation” (26). As the celebrated Mahabharata states, “The Vedas are varied and the traditions are varied: one is not a sage if his view is not varied” (26). Bhattacharyya shows us throughout his study how Hinduism’s multifaceted and varied views of reproductive ethics open to growing introspection and discovery. …