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Abortion — the deliberate termination of a pregnancy — is one of the most controversial ethical issues in society. Religious believers hold a range of views on abortion, from absolute opposition to conditional acceptance. This lesson explores Christian and Islamic perspectives alongside secular ethical arguments.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Abortion | The deliberate termination of a pregnancy, usually before the foetus is viable outside the womb |
| Pro-life | The view that abortion is wrong because life begins at conception and must be protected |
| Pro-choice | The view that women should have the right to choose whether to continue a pregnancy |
| Viability | The point at which a foetus can survive outside the womb (approximately 24 weeks) |
| Ensoulment | The point at which the soul enters the body — debated in both Christianity and Islam |
| Conception | The moment when sperm fertilises an egg, creating a new life |
The Abortion Act 1967 (amended 1990) allows abortion in England, Wales, and Scotland:
The Catholic Church is absolutely opposed to abortion:
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you." (Jeremiah 1:5)
"Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception." (Catechism of the Catholic Church)
The Church of England takes a more nuanced position:
Many Muslim scholars believe the soul enters the foetus at 120 days (about 17 weeks):
| Before 120 days | After 120 days |
|---|---|
| Some scholars permit abortion in certain circumstances (e.g. risk to mother's health, severe abnormality) | Abortion is forbidden except to save the mother's life |
| The foetus is developing but not yet fully "ensouled" | The foetus is now a living soul and has full rights |
| Issue | Catholic Christianity | Liberal Christianity | Islam |
|---|---|---|---|
| When does life begin? | Conception | Debated — may be later | Ensoulment at 120 days (or earlier) |
| Is abortion ever acceptable? | No (except double effect) | Yes, in some circumstances | Before ensoulment in certain cases; after ensoulment only to save the mother |
| Key principle | Sanctity of life from conception | Sanctity of life balanced with compassion | Life belongs to Allah; each case requires scholarly guidance |
flowchart TD
A["Pregnancy:<br/>abortion considered"] --> B{Why?}
B -->|Mother's life<br/>at risk| C["Most traditions permit<br/>even Catholics via<br/>double effect"]
B -->|Rape / severe<br/>foetal abnormality| D{Which tradition?}
B -->|Personal choice| E{Which tradition?}
D -->|Catholic| F["Still wrong:<br/>innocent life"]
D -->|Anglican / liberal| G["Lesser of two evils<br/>may be justified"]
D -->|Islam pre-120 days| H[Some scholars permit]
D -->|Islam post-120 days| I["Forbidden:<br/>soul has entered"]
E -->|All religious| J["Generally opposed:<br/>sanctity of life"]
E -->|Secular pro-choice| K["Bodily autonomy<br/>UK Abortion Act 1967"]
Exam Tip: The exam requires you to present arguments on BOTH sides. Even if you personally hold a strong view, you must demonstrate that you understand the opposing position.
Abortion remains one of the most divisive ethical issues in religion and society. Christians and Muslims hold a range of views, from absolute opposition (Catholic Church) to conditional acceptance (some Protestant and Islamic positions). The debate centres on when life begins, the rights of the mother, and whether the sanctity of life principle allows any exceptions. Understanding these diverse perspectives is essential for balanced exam answers.
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