Abortion

Question 1

1976 Abortion Act

Answer 1

• 2 doctor’s agree that the mothers life is at risk
OR
• Risk to health of already living children
OR
• Baby is SEVERELY disabled

Question 2

1990 Abortion Act

Answer 2

• Abortion CANNOT take place after 24 weeks of pregnancy (6 months) - this would be classed as ‘murder’.

Question 3

Non Religious Arguments in Favour of Abortion

Answer 3

• A woman has the right to chose.
• A child’s quality of life is important.
• A mother’s health and welfare are more important then that of her unborn child.
• There are too many people on the planet.

Question 4

Non Religious Arguments against Abortion

Answer 4

• Its a form of murder.
• Everyone has the right to be born so they can reach their full potential.
• All life has value

Question 5

Christian Teaching on Abortion

Answer 5

• Life begins at conception so abortion is murder and a serious sin.
• Christian teachings on the Sanctity of life means every human has the right to a life (even a foetus).
• Some Christians believe that abortion in certain circumstances may be the kindest and most loving action. They refer to Jesus’ teaching that love is the most important thing (SITUATION ETHICS).

Question 6

Muslim Teaching on Abortion

Answer 6

• Some allow it up to 120 days. Hadith says the baby gets its soul at this point.
• Some say it is always wrong. Quran condemns murder.
• Some say it is OK if the mother’s life is at risk. Shari’ah says that the mother’s life takes precedence over the child’s.