Abortion Revisited

Well after this post every one, at both sides of the abortion debate will be p….., I man teed off with me, The problem, as I see it, that the Anti-Abortion side by defining “life” to begin at conception,, all abortions are murder and one should submit to God’s authority, no compromise and the Pro Choice’ side , At least a good part of them, wants no restrictions what so ever, and leave the authority totally up to the pregnant woman. Wouldn’t life be simple if everything was so black and white. Let’s examine the factors which should be considered: When does human life begin, Birth defects, overpopulation, sex selection, social circumstances, rape, underground dangerous abortions, adoption rates, racial tensions, surplus of males over females, rejected children growing up in asocial environments. We all want healthy babies, who are wanted and loved growing up in a sustainable environment, with a decent standard of living, the best education to create worthwhile adult citizen, useful to society. What can we do? First of all leave religion out of this discussion, it won’t be helpful if people dig out texts from an interesting ancient historical book that is thoroughly outdated and does not fit in modern society. If you are not willing to do that, do not read any further. Next, let us scientifically determine when a baby becomes a viable human being, this in itself is controversial and can probably range from 7 to 22 weeks depending on ones opinion, but like any other differences of opinion,  we solve by that by compromise. I am sure that we can find an answer that most of us can live with, not by vote but by using rational thinking. This time span must be sufficient so that the mother has plenty of time to make that decision. It must be her decision only. No family member, nor medical personnel, nor the government should make it for her, unless she is totally incapable and not able to recover from that (brain dead for example) We can set up alternatives is such cases. Then establish a level of incurable birth defects resulting in a useless life. This should be flexible and again a procedure established which prevents the “slippery slopes” of excesses. Yes it won’t be easy, and will change from time to time when medical knowledge advances. If there is a possibility of sex selection becoming a problem because of an over population of males, we can look at the possibility of making it illegal to disclose the sex of the baby until the allowed time period is closed. It will be “leaky” but it might help. All this can’t be rigid because there are always unforeseen circumstances and changes in society to be taken into account. These cases must be resolved by special appointed committees and perhaps court decisions. Many people resent government regulations, since they are often politically inspired but they are necessary and do tend to change under the pressure of public opinion. Some of you who have been following my website www.origin-of-religion.com  have probably noticed that my opinion has changed somewhat in time because of the many inputs and opinions of many people. I am not afraid to change my opinion when I have more information to base it on. I call that maturing. Now I am ready to receive the wrath from both sides of the spectrum. I am ready to dive under my desk when the screen starts throwing rotten tomatoes at me. J