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ABORTION RIGHTS AND CARE
Charish Ann P. Simbajon (A2-3) May 8, 2024
Aborting Limits, Birthing Freedom
Amidst the ongoing discourse surrounding women's rights, one crucial aspect often
overlooked is the concept of care. Beyond merely fulfilling a moral obligation, care entails a
deeper consideration of the circumstance’s women face, particularly in the realm of motherhood.
Imagine a scenario where a woman finds herself balancing the demands of pregnancy, the
challenges of providing for her family, and the complexities of navigating societal
expectations—all while still in her youth. In such a narrative, the question arises: Is it morally
acceptable for a would-be mother in this situation to seek an abortion? The issue of abortion is
deeply intertwined with complex considerations of women's rights, autonomy, and social justice.
In this position paper, I will be firm that abortion is morally acceptable in certain circumstances
for several reasons.
Abortion, defined as the termination of pregnancy before the fetus can sustain life outside
the womb, remains a contentious issue with advocates on both sides presenting compelling
arguments. The argument for the moral permissibility of abortion rests on the principle of
autonomy, derived from Kantian deontology. This principle emphasizes treating individuals as
autonomous beings with rational self-direction, thereby respecting their freedom and autonomy
as intrinsic values. This emphasizes that granting legal personhood to fetus’s limits abortion
access, infringing on women's autonomy. Denying women the right to decide about their bodies
during pregnancy is seen as unethical, underscoring the necessity of preserving abortion as
morally permissible to safeguard women's autonomy.
Furthermore, the decision to seek an abortion often stems from considerations of the
quality of life for both the woman and the potential child. Bringing a child into the world
requires substantial resources, including financial stability, emotional support, and access to
healthcare. In cases where a woman is unable to provide these necessities, choosing abortion
may be a responsible decision aimed at safeguarding the well-being of herself and any potential
offspring.
Furthermore, it's imperative to address the maternal injuries and fatalities resulting from
illegal abortions. Many women lack the means to access professional abortion services, leading
them to resort to dangerous methods like self-induced procedures using improvised tools or
medication. These practices pose significant risks to women's health. Legalizing abortion would
compel insurance companies to cover abortion expenses, preventing women from endangering
themselves. One of the largest research studies on the question of why women choose abortion
surveyed about 1,200 abortion patients and found 73 percent said they could not afford the baby
at the time” (Oberman 121- 122.) As mentioned earlier, if abortion was legal in all states,
insurance companies would pay for the termination of the fetus. What stands out the most is that
73 percent is a very large number of women who can not afford a baby due to their situation.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding abortion is multifaceted, intersecting with complex
considerations of ethics, autonomy, and social justice. By recognizing the intrinsic value of
women's autonomy and the dire consequences of restricting access to safe abortion services, we
acknowledge the necessity of preserving reproductive rights. It is not only a matter of moral
permissibility but also a question of societal responsibility towards women's health and well-
being.
As we navigate the intricacies of this issue, it becomes increasingly evident that the path
forward must prioritize compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of the diverse
circumstances in which women find themselves. By advocating for the moral acceptability of
abortion in certain circumstances, we affirm our commitment to upholding the dignity and
agency of all individuals, particularly those facing the daunting complexities of motherhood.
In the pursuit of a more just and equitable society, let us continue to strive for policies
and practices that empower women to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. Let
us stand together in solidarity, championing the rights of women to navigate their reproductive
journeys with autonomy, dignity, and respect. For in doing so, we not only uphold the principles
of justice and compassion but also foster a world where every individual is free to live a life of
fulfillment and self-determination.
REFERENCES:
Gedge, E., & Waluchow, W. (2012). Ethical Reasources for Decision-Making. In In Gedge, E., &
Waluchow, W. (Eds.), Readings in Health Care Ethics (pp. xxviii). Toronto, ON:
Broadview Press.
Position Paper on Abortion (Web version) | Doctors for Choice Malta. (n.d.). Doctors for
Choice. [Link]
Sherwin, S. (2012) Abortion Through a Feminist Ethics Lens. In Gedge, E., & Waluchow, W.
(Eds.), Readings in Health Care Ethics (pp. 238-246). Toronto, ON: Broadview Press
Warren, M. (2012). The Moral Significance of Birth. In Gedge, E., & Waluchow, W. (Eds.),
Readings in Health Care Ethics (pp. 225-236). Toronto, ON: Broadview Press
Why Abortion should be Legal essay - EduBirdie. (2023, April 26). Edubirdie.
[Link]
