Fathers as Specimens, by John Grondelski

Either fatherhood has something to do with biology and sex or it has something to do with choice: there’s no middle ground.

By John Grondelski, National Catholic Register,  6/16/20

“Appalling,” “stunningly depraved,” and “twisted” were among the social media comments on a new “reality” TV show, Labor of Love. The program, according to press reports, is modeled on series like The Bachelor and The Bachelorette but takes the notion one step further. A woman is looking to become a mother. Fifteen men compete to impregnate her. The woman will not only choose the “winner,” but whether the victor will “have a relationship” with her in conjunction with impregnation (AKA in person sex) or just be a “sperm donor.”

I don’t disagree with the social media characterizations. My question is: why? Why do we think the premise of this show is “appalling,” “stunningly depraved,” and “twisted?”

How, after all, is the idea of this program so different from a “hookup?” A man wants a “hookup” for sex. “Equality” for women entails her being able to do the same. A “hookup” by definition excludes any expectations of anything more permanent or lasting. Should the “hookup” lead to a “relationship,” then that further dimension of commitment is something to be negotiated and only on the agreement of both parties. Neither side, however, should think that an act of sexual intercourse entails anything else beyond it.  …

Read more here:  https://www.ncregister.com/blog/grondelski/fathers-as-specimens