The Decision to Have an Abortion

Full Answer Section Dilemma: The Decision to Have an Abortion In the context of the pro-choice stance on abortion, a specific dilemma faced by a person could be a young woman who discovers she is pregnant unexpectedly. She is still pursuing her education and has aspirations for her career, but she is not financially stable and does not have a strong support system. The dilemma she faces is whether to continue the pregnancy and potentially face hardships in pursuing her goals or to choose to have an abortion and prioritize her personal and professional development. Key Terms: Abortion: The termination of a pregnancy before the fetus can survive outside the womb. Pro-choice: The belief that individuals should have the right to choose whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy. Conflicts and Controversies: Autonomy vs. Sanctity of Life: The conflict between a woman’s autonomy and her right to make decisions about her own body versus the belief that life begins at conception and should be protected. Personal Goals vs. Parental Responsibilities: The conflict between pursuing personal aspirations and the potential responsibilities and challenges of becoming a parent. Societal Norms vs. Individual Circumstances: The controversy surrounding societal expectations and judgments about women’s reproductive choices versus the recognition that each individual’s circumstances are unique. Professional Code of Ethics: The American Medical Association (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics states that physicians must respect patients’ autonomy and provide nonjudgmental care. It recognizes that decisions regarding reproductive health, including abortion, are ultimately up to the patient. This may involve conflicts between a physician’s personal beliefs and their professional duty to provide unbiased care. The most moral thing for the woman in this dilemma is to make a decision based on her own values, needs, and circumstances. Each person’s moral values may vary, but it is essential for her to consider factors such as her physical and mental well-being, financial stability, support system, and future goals. Applying Ethical Theories: Aristotle’s Golden Mean: The woman should aim for a middle ground where she considers both her personal aspirations and potential parental responsibilities. This may involve making a decision that allows her to continue pursuing her education or career while also considering the impact on her life and the potential future of the child. Utilitarianism: The woman should consider the overall happiness and well-being of herself, the potential child, and those affected by her decision. This includes considering factors such as her ability to provide a stable environment for a child and the potential impact on her own happiness and life satisfaction. Natural Law Ethics: The woman should consider the inherent value of human life as well as her own nature and purpose. This theory may lead to conflicting conclusions, as some may argue for protecting potential life from conception, while others may argue that prioritizing the woman’s well-being aligns with her own nature and purpose. In terms of which theory works best ethically, it is subjective and depends on individual moral values and perspectives. However, from a pro-choice standpoint, prioritizing the woman’s autonomy and well-being would align with both utilitarianism and Aristotle’s Golden Mean. Natural Law Ethics may be more inclined towards protecting potential life from conception, which may conflict with the woman’s right to choose. The most moral thing may align with the woman’s right to make decisions about her body, taking into account her circumstances, well-being, and future goals. It recognizes the importance of autonomy, personal happiness, and individual circumstances in making ethical decisions.  

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