That slogan is powerful, effective, and certainly reasonable. But those attributes are diluted by the time that has passed after that instant when sperm and egg have united to create a human being. That timeline is the critical factor which justifies the Rowe/Wade solution for the abortion dilemma. My use of the word ‘solution’ is predicated by the following reasons.
To begin with, the natural distinction for three semesters is key to humane abortion. As I highlight in my previous article on abortion (titled, Abortion) miscarriages occur naturally (a.k.a., spontaneous miscarriage). Although most women are deeply upset by a natural miscarriage, they usually have no reason to blame themselves for it. And, of course, when a miscarriage had been induced, there is little – if any – reason to regret their decision to not have a child. Of course, in that instance “My Body My Choice” is also unquestionable, second to none, including her partner and certainly not by law.
Abortions are practiced by several animal species. Their abortions are instinctive and have no moral or religious ramifications. Human abortions are not instinctive; they are intentional. Therefore, human abortion is at least one of the primary controversial issues, if not the primary political issue at General Elections. As far as I know, no controversy is more contentious than abortion in the United States.
Yes, I’m aware of the widely diverse suppositions of what it might feel like at the cusp of life or death. I don’t attempt to determine what those last moments may be like for the baby, especially because flesh, suction cups and–I suppose–the urgent need for air cannot be known by anyone other than the sentient body within another body–even if only in some subconscious state of being.
Reflections and commentaries by the other Mario Martone 