Religion and Life:
Abortion
💡 KEY TERMS : Abortion- Deliberate removal of a foetus from the womb to end pregnancy.
📃 Number carried out in England & Wales in 2014 = 184,571
Pro - Life Vs. Pro - Choice
● Pro-Life means opposition/against to abortion, and support for foetal right.
● Pro-Choice is a term used to indicate support of the belief that woman should have
access to abortions and be able to make decisions about their own bodies.
Legal Position:
● Before 1967, abortion was illegal in the UK, but following the Abortion Act of that
year, it became possible for a woman to have an abortion in certain circumstances.
The law now permits abortion up to the 24th week of pregnancy if two doctors agree
that one of the following conditions applies:
1. The woman's life is in danger due to the pregnancy;
2. There is a risk to the woman's physical or mental health;
3. There is a significant risk that the baby will be born with severe physical or mental
disabilities;
4. The birth of an additional child may harm the physical or mental well-being of children
who already exist in that family.
It is worth noting that the issue of abortion remains a contentious topic in society, with varied
opinions and beliefs surrounding the topic. Some argue that abortion is a necessary right for
women to have control over their own bodies, while others argue that it is morally wrong and
goes against religious beliefs. Despite the controversy, the legal framework surrounding the
practice aims to provide women with the necessary support and resources to make informed
decisions about their reproductive health.
Christians teachings on abortion
Sanctity of life: all life is holy and created by God
All humans are made in the image of God