Human equality arguments against abortion

J Med Ethics. 2023 Aug;49(8):569-572. doi: 10.1136/jme-2022-108572. Epub 2022 Nov 16.

Abstract

In this paper, I argue that a commitment to a very modest form of egalitarianism-equality between non-disabled human adults-implies fetal personhood. Since the most plausible bases for human value are in being human, or in a gradated property, and since the latter of which implies an inequality between non-disabled adult humans, I conclude that the most plausible basis for human equality is in being human-an attribute which fetuses have.

Keywords: Abortion - Induced; Disabled Persons; Embryos and Fetuses; Moral Status; Persons.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced*
  • Adult
  • Beginning of Human Life*
  • Female
  • Fetus
  • Humans
  • Moral Obligations
  • Personhood
  • Pregnancy
  • Value of Life