Abortion: A Controversial Issue

What is it? Abortion is the act of purposely removing a human embryo or fetus from its mother’s uterus before it is capable of surviving on its own.

Who does it? It has been done since ancient times. There are historical records of abortion in China, ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire. The Greek philosopher Aristotle recommended it instead of infanticide as a means of population control. In the late 1500s, Pope Sixtus V first declared it to be homicide. In the 19 th century, abortion was banned in the United States and United Kingdom. In the second half of the 20 th century, it became legal in many countries. In 1973, in Roe v. Wade, the United States Supreme Court decided that state laws banning abortion were violating a woman’s right to privacy guaranteed by the 14 th Amendment to the Constitution.

When it is done? Most abortions are performed in the early weeks of pregnancy, but some are performed later, especially in situations where the life of the mother is at risk.

Where is it done? In places where it is illegal, performed by unskilled persons, with hazardous equipment, or in unsanitary facilities, millions of women are hospitalized each year as a result, and over 50,000 of them die from the complications. In parts of the developed world where it is legal, abortion is most often performed in a medical setting and extremely safe. Example: In 1996 abortion became legal in South Africa and abortion-related deaths dropped by more than 90%.

Why is it done? Some reasons people give for choosing abortion: Postpone childbearing Focus resources on existing children Unable to afford Lack of father’s support Disruption of education Relationship problems Unemployment Too young Conception through rape/incest Maternal health

How is it done? Traditional methods include use of herbs, sharp tools, and physical trauma. In recent times, where legal, it is most often done surgically.

Opponents see it as an issue of life and death, as an American holocaust, mass murder of the unborn. Supporters see it as an issue of individual freedom, celebrating the ability of women to be free of government intervention in controlling their own bodies. Abortion involves several issues: The question of when life begins The personal status of the embryo or fetus The moral status of the pregnant woman The pregnant woman’s right to reproductive autonomy The role of government in regulating the procedure What makes it controversial?

Question #1: Is Abortion Immoral? Yes, abortion is immoral! Scientific evidence Blah blah Church doctrine Blah blah Life begins at conception Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments No, abortion is not immoral! Woman’s right to reproductive freedom Blah blah Women’s health issues Blah blah Life begins at birth Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments

Question #2: Does abortion benefit women? Yes, abortion benefits women! Health benefits Blah blah Safe Blah blah Restrictions harm women’s health Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments No, abortion does not benefit women! Emotional problems Blah blah Risks, PID Blah blah Links to cancer Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments

Question #3: Should abortion rights be restricted? Yes, abortion should be illegal! Lack of public support Blah blah Late term abortions Blah blah Public funds Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments No, abortion should remain legal! Back alley deaths Blah blah Family health Blah blah No public funds Blah blah What’s wrong with the other side’s arguments

Concluding remarks Questions and comments Opinions