Reconstructing Parentage

A groundbreaking analysis of parentage law, integrating legal doctrine and moral philosophy into a comprehensive system.

Gregg Strauss (Author)

9781009485418, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 March 2025

302 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.605 kg

'A superb book that asks - and answers - fundamental legal questions about parenthood. Gregg Strauss traces the foundations of our many legal methods for becoming a parent and, harnessing the law and moral philosophy, rebuilds a compelling( framework for moving forward to ensure respect for parents and children.' Naomi Chan, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy Distinguished Professor of Law, University of Virginia School of Law

Reconstructing Parentage is a comprehensive investigation into what makes someone a parent. Drawing on liberal-egalitarian philosophy, the book argues that the community must ensure children's basic rights, including their right to a parent. In light of parenthood's political foundation, no adult could have a natural right or duty to parent based in genetics, procreation, caregiving, or intentions. Nevertheless, by scrutinizing existing law, the book uncovers a limited role for each intuitive basis of parentage and reassembles them into a pluralistic system of parentage law. Reconstructing Parentage offers a timely and thought-provoking analysis of a complex and contentious issue in modern society.

1. Political parenthood
2. Parentage by genetics
3. Parents by procreation
4. Parents by caregiving
5. Parents by agreement
6. Parentage conflicts.

Subject Areas: Family law [LNM]