Simplifying the Abortion Debate: A Pro-Life Perspective
The abortion debate can be overwhelming, with various arguments and perspectives on both sides. However, at its core, the issue is relatively simple. As a pro-life advocate, I believe that elective abortion unjustly takes the life of a defenseless human being. This perspective simplifies the controversy by focusing on one key question: Is the unborn a member of the human family?
Humanity from Conception
Scientifically, we know that from the earliest stages of development, the unborn are distinct, living, and whole human beings. Leading embryology books confirm this. For example, Keith L. Moore and T.V.N. Persaud write, “A zygote is the beginning of a new human being. Human development begins at fertilization.” Prior to his abortion advocacy, former Planned Parenthood President Dr. Alan Guttmacher was perplexed that anyone would question this.
No Morally Significant Difference
Philosophically, we can argue that embryos are less developed than newborns or toddlers, but this difference is not morally significant in the way abortion advocates need it to be. Consider the claim that the immediate capacity for self-awareness bestows value on human beings. This is an arbitrary assertion, not an argument. Why is some development needed? And why is this particular degree of development decisive rather than another?
Equal Value, Different Stages
It’s far more reasonable to argue that although humans differ immensely in terms of talents, accomplishments, and degrees of development, they are nonetheless equal because they share a common human nature. Think of the acronym SLED as a helpful reminder of the non-essential differences between humans:
- Size
- Level of development
- Environment
- Degree of dependency
Tough Questions
When critics say that birth makes the unborn human, ask, “How does a mere change of location from inside the womb to outside the womb change the essential nature of the unborn?” If they say that brain development or self-awareness makes us human, ask if they would agree that those with an IQ below 20 or perhaps 40 should be declared non-persons. If not, why not?
Following the Facts
Some people will ignore the scientific and philosophical case for the pro-life view and argue for abortion based on self-interest. Remind your critics that if we care about truth, we will courageously follow the facts wherever they lead, no matter the cost to our own self-interests.
Conclusion
The pro-life message can compete in the marketplace of ideas, provided Christians properly understand and articulate that message. By simplifying the abortion debate and focusing on the humanity of the unborn, we can make a persuasive case for the lives of the unborn.
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