Ep 2. Parents Try to Force Surrogate to Abort One Child

What Would You Do? is an American television show that explores ethical dilemmas by creating scenarios to see how people react. In season 13, episode 2, titled "Parents Try to Force Surrogate to Abort One Child," the show focuses on the topic of surrogacy and the complicated decision-making process that inevitably arises.

The episode begins with an actress playing the role of a surrogate mother, meeting with a couple who have used her services. The couple is thrilled to find out that the surrogate is carrying twins, but their joy turns to concern when they learn that one of the babies has a genetic disorder that will result in a lifetime of medical complications. The couple tells the surrogate that they want her to terminate the pregnancy of the sick child, leaving only the healthy one to be carried to term.

The show follows the reactions of various individuals who witness the conversation between the surrogate and the couple. They include other customers in the fertility clinic where the meeting takes place, as well as bystanders at a nearby cafe. The scenarios shift from a perspective of people who have been through surrogacy, to medical experts, to people who just happened to be around for the conversation.

Throughout the episode, we see a range of responses from the people who witness the proposed termination. Some people express shock and disgust. Others attempt to convince the couple that aborting a child solely because of medical problems is not ethical. One couple even offers to adopt the sick child, rather than see it terminated.

The reactions are varied and nuanced, with some people expressing the view that surrogacy is immoral, while others see the surrogate's consent as all-important. Similarly, opinions on genetics and the value of life differ greatly among the several participants.

The show does not shy away from presenting multiple viewpoints on this complicated issue. Rather it presents various angles as a means of ensuring a more comprehensive and thoughtful exploration of the situation. At times, the tension between the surrogate, the couple, and the witnesses is palpable, underscoring the degree to which this issue is fraught and deeply personal.

Throughout the episode, the actors and production team are tasteful and thoughtful in their portrayal of the complex and sensitive issue of surrogacy. Those followed within the episode provide a range of responses, thereby highlighting the difficulty and the importance of discussing the ethical implications of medical procedures.

Overall, this episode offers a candid look at a complex medical issue and takes a poignant, if sometimes uncomfortable, approach to illustrating the various viewpoints and qualms that can be present regarding the surrogacy process. Viewers are sure to be moved by the stories of the surrogate, the couple, and the characters who populate this unique and emotionally charged scenario.