The current state of preimplantation genetic diagnosis technology is presented, as are the biological principles and medical procedures that make it possible. The arguments of both proponents and those with social and ethical reservations about the broader implications of the technique are carefully reviewed, and the limitations of the dominant medical model approach to the technique are exposed. A discussion of reproductive autonomy in light of emerging testing applications of PGD not directly related to the avoidance of serious genetic abnormalities in the resulting child demonstrates the complexity of both clinical decision-making and public policy formulation with regard to PGD. Recently proposed legislation in Canada reflects such complexities, and highlights the lack of social consensus on the appropriate uses of, and restrictions on, PGD. A variety of "soft law" instruments, notably professional codes of practice and research guidelines implemented by institutional ethics committees, may mitigate some of the uncertainty surrounding PGD in Canada, but their limited applicability and espousal of the medical model approach render questionable their capacity to reconcile tolerance of pluralism with respect for human life, diversity, and reproductive autonomy.

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