Abortion
Abortion is a topic that has, for ages, remained at the center of controversy. The pro-choice and pro-life debate has raged on for decades and possibly, centuries. Does the fetus have a right to live, just like its mother? Does the mother have the right to decide whether to keep or discard a component of her body? This paper evaluates both sides of the argument and backs a pro-life approach to the debate.
From a pro-choice stand, every adult has a right to choose what is good for his or her body. A fetus only develops the ability to feel pain after birth, thus abortion does not affect the fetus in a similar way that a newborn would be. In this regard, a fetus is not regarded to be a fully-formed human being. Additionally, in the case of rape, abortion is one of the options that a woman can employ to ensure she does not get an unplanned child. In a number of countries and states, abortion is legalized in the case of rape.
Choice and the ability to make decisions, according to pro-choice proponents, is an empowerment to women. In case someone feels that pregnancy will halt her chances of progressing in life or achieving planned goals, such as progression in one’s career, then the choice should be made in favor of the mother, not the fetus. Moreover, modern abortion procedures are different from traditional procedures. Modern practices are safe and do not contribute to such health problems as cancer that were associated with traditional abortion procedures.
On the other hand, pro-life arguments contend that human life begins the minute conception occurs. Once conceived, the fetus is human life and has the right to be protected from all harm, including abortion. Spiritually, life is sacred and no one has the right to take it, except God. Regardless of whether the pregnancy was planned or not, once conception occurs, the mother has the responsibility of caring for the resultant life until such a time as the fetus is born and the child grows to maturity age. Abortion, from this perspective, is merciless murder.
From a pro-life stand also, it is a violation of moral values to willingly engage in sexual activities and then refuse to bring up the product, a child. It is a violation of moral principles. In modern days, there are numerous methods that a woman can use to prevent pregnancy, including the use of pills, IUCD devices among others. Failure or reluctance to use such protective methods during sex implies that the woman is willing and ready to conceive. She, therefore, has to take the responsibility and raise the child, not abort it. Furthermore, adoption comes in as a handy alternative to abortion. A woman has the option of giving birth to the child and giving it up to someone else instead of getting rid of the fetus. Abortion, from this perspective, is inappropriate and indefensible.
In consideration and evaluation of both the pro-choice and pro-life arguments, the pro-life arguments carry more weight. Life is sacred, and choices have consequences. Once the egg is fertilized by the sperm, life begins and a fetus is just as deserving of a chance at life as an adult. Although each woman has a right to determine what happens to her body, such choices are limited by their consequences. Safe sex ensures that unwanted pregnancies are prevented thus women have a responsibility to prevent such pregnancies. Failure to practice safe sex could result in a pregnancy which should then be protected and the fetus has to be given a chance to live.
In conclusion, abortion should be abolished and the sanctity of human life upheld. While the female gender has the right and ability to choose what happens to their bodies, it is worth noting that human life is sacred. Choices have consequences, and every individual, both male and female, must undertake their due responsibility.
