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Chamberlain University
ETHC-445 Principles of Ethics
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Date
Abortion remains a contentious issue in contemporary society. Supporters argue that a woman has autonomy over her own body, allowing her to make choices about her reproductive health. A compelling argument from the pro-choice perspective is the belief that an embryo does not possess the characteristics of a baby, such as the ability to think or feel. Conversely, opponents of abortion contend that it constitutes a violation of human rights, as it effectively ends the life of an unborn child, equating the act with murder.
Maria, an 18-year-old woman, navigated the complexities of modern dating through a dating app, leading to sexual encounters with several men. Upon discovering her pregnancy, she feared her parents’ reaction, particularly their strong religious beliefs which deemed abortion a sin. With no clear knowledge of the father and feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations, Maria contemplated abortion. After seeking the support of a friend, she visited an abortion clinic, where the doctor prescribed a regimen of pills to terminate the pregnancy. While taking the first pill, Maria experienced severe pain but found that her fear of parental disapproval overshadowed her physical discomfort. Eventually, she opted for a surgical abortion due to ineffective medication. Following the procedure, Maria experienced deep guilt and depression, prioritizing her public image over her mental health recovery. This situation underscores the potential health risks associated with illegal abortions and highlights the emotional turmoil that can accompany such decisions.
In determining the most ethical course of action for Maria, two philosophical theories provide insight: ethical egoism and social contract theory. Ethical egoism posits that individuals should act in their own self-interest (Rachels, 2018). This perspective suggests that a woman’s personal interests should dictate her choices regarding abortion, overriding external pressures, including parental religious beliefs. Thus, an ethical egoist would support Maria’s decision to terminate her pregnancy if she believes it serves her best interests.
In contrast, social contract theory emphasizes the obligations individuals have within society. It suggests that a mother has a duty to sustain the life of the fetus, which, despite lacking significant moral characteristics, is still recognized as a human being with rights (Stark, 2019). Advocates of this theory argue that abortion infringes upon these rights, viewing it as morally unacceptable. According to this perspective, Maria’s situation illustrates a conflict between individual desires and societal expectations, particularly those shaped by religious beliefs.
The healthcare professionals involved in Maria’s abortion must navigate their ethical responsibilities as outlined by the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics. This code mandates that nurses provide unbiased care to all patients, regardless of personal beliefs (ANA, 2001). Therefore, even if healthcare providers personally oppose abortion, they are ethically obligated to respect Maria’s autonomy and fulfill her request.
Lara Denis (2008) discusses the evolving Kantian perspective on abortion, suggesting that while it raises moral questions, it can be deemed permissible under certain circumstances. Kantian ethics emphasizes a woman’s autonomy and her right to make decisions regarding her body, particularly when faced with the challenges of pregnancy. Furthermore, proponents of reproductive rights argue that embryos should not be equated with fully developed humans, as they lack consciousness and rationality (Manninen, 2014). While pro-life advocates assert that fetuses are human beings, this viewpoint does not negate the moral considerations surrounding a woman’s right to choose. I believe that, although abortion raises moral dilemmas, it is crucial to respect a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body, regardless of external pressures or religious beliefs.
According to Aristotle (1999), virtue is defined as a state that finds balance between excess and deficiency, guided by reason. In Maria’s case, her moral dilemmas demonstrate both selfishness and courage. Despite the societal and familial pressures, she displayed bravery in choosing abortion to prioritize her well-being over the potential judgment from others. By making this decision, she exemplified a commitment to her personal needs and happiness, resisting the constraints imposed by her religious upbringing.
Utilitarianism encompasses various principles such as welfarism, consequentialism, and impartiality (Felzmann, 2017). In Maria’s situation, if her decision to abort leads to greater happiness and welfare, then it aligns with utilitarian ideals. This framework does not assign intrinsic value to the life of an embryo, thereby supporting a mother’s choice. Thus, a utilitarian perspective would advocate for Maria’s abortion as it contributes positively to her overall well-being and restores her sense of stability.
Natural law ethics requires consideration of divine laws when making moral decisions. While some argue that abortion should be categorically prohibited, even in cases of health risks, incest, or rape (Irving, 2000), I contend that women should ultimately have the authority to make decisions regarding their bodies. Women must have the freedom to choose what is best for them, without interference from external authorities.
In conclusion, my perspective aligns more closely with the pro-choice stance, supporting a woman’s right to choose whether to continue a pregnancy. I advocate for the utilitarian view, which prioritizes a woman’s autonomy and decision-making in matters of personal health and well-being, paralleling the ethical egoist perspective.
American Nurses Association (ANA). (2001). Code of ethics for nurses. American Nurses Association, Washington, D.C.
Aristotle. (1999). Nicomachean ethics (H. Rackham, Trans.). Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Denis, L. (2008). Animality and agency: A Kantian approach to abortion. Philosophy and Phenomenological Research, 76(1), 117-137. Retrieved from Wiley Online Library.
Felzmann, H. (2017). Utilitarianism as an approach to ethical decision making in health care. Retrieved from SpringerLink.
Irving, D.N. (2000). Abortion: Correct application of natural law theory. The Linacre Quarterly, 67(1), 45-61. Retrieved from https://epublications.marquette.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2215&context=lnq
Manninen, B. A. (2014). A Kantian defense of abortion rights with respect for intrauterine life. Diametros, 39, 70-92. https://doi.org/10.13153/diam.39.2014.565
Rachels, J. (2018). The elements of moral philosophy. [VitalSource Bookshelf]. Retrieved from https://ambassadored.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781260213003/cfi/6/28!/4@0:0
Stark, P. (2019). Does an unborn human have rights? Appearance, ability, and attitude don’t justify lethal discrimination. Retrieved from MCCL.ORG
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