Outer Origin

“Ectogenesis is a controversial topic that has a strong impact on women, humanity, and society. Laura Johnson Dahlke discusses the technology of ectogenesis and compares this model of pregnancy and gestation to women and the human childbirth experience. In this book, Dahlke delivers a riveting exploration of motherhood, ethics, and societal norms which are challenged, leaving the reader to reflect with their own thoughts and feelings on the future of childbirth and reproductive technology.”


—Debra A. Cherubini, associate professor of nursing, Salve Regina University





“Outer Origin is a comprehensive yet readable examination of ectogenesis. Laura Johnson Dahlke’s interdisciplinary approach challenges the reader to consider this topic beyond the fields of science and technology. Her analysis is also timely, as she is writing about technology before we are forced to contend with it.”


—Taten Shirley, associate professor of humanities, Faulkner University





“Elegantly written and impeccably researched, Outer Origin urges readers to consider the social, moral, and ethical consequences of ‘extra-uterine destining.’ Using the disparate lenses of history, philosophy, science, literature, feminism, and more, Laura Johnson Dahlke has created an absorbing and wide-ranging study of childbirth and what was once only the stuff of sci-fi novels. An essential, provocative read!”


—Jody Keisner, associate professor of English, University of Nebraska at Omaha