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.

‘Reconstructing Parentage is an amazing text: original, comprehensive, and persuasive. It combines policy, morality, and doctrine, without simplifying or distorting the issues or the positions. It will be the authoritative text on parental rights and duties for a long time to come.’

Brian Bix - Frederick W. Thomas Professor of Law and Philosophy, University of Minnesota

‘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