Question

“A human abortion involves the removal or ejection of a fetus or an embryo from the uterus of a woman, resulting in the death of the embryo or fetus. In humans, usually the developing organism is called an embryo during the first two months of development, and afterwards, it is called a fetus. Intentional abortions are performed by chemical or surgical means, and millions are performed worldwide every year” (Jones & Demarco, 2016). Using Kant’s ethical theory, describe a scenario (hypothetical or real) for each of the following and give reasoning why Kant would a) justify an abortion and b) not justify an abortion.

Answer 1

Kant's ethical theory would not justify an abortion because it is morally wrong to take a life. Kant would ask the pregnant women whether she would agree that other women take life of her unborn child. If she agrees that it morally correct for other women to take life of her unborn child's life , then she can morally define her action as correct. If she cannot define it as a morally correct with respect to other women, then she doesn't has right to take life of her unborn child. Thus, Kant would argue that it morally incorrect to take life even it is in the initial stages of development.

If the unborn child is out of wedlock or is due to forced actions as rape, then Kant would support the abortion of fetus or embryo,as it would be morally wrong because bringing up such children will make mother in dilemma as such children wouldn't be considered as legitimate. Also, if the pregnancy causes a serious threat to woman's life, then, Kant would have opted for woman's life over the fetus's or the embryo's life.