Abortion

Critically evaluate the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade (1973) in light of the arguments presented by Noonan, Thomson and Warren. On Noonan’s view the Court’s decision is too liberal. He would argue that abortion is justified only to save the life of the mother. Thomson would argue that the Court’s decision is too liberal because it allows abortion to be used as a form of birth control. Thomson’s position is that abortion is permissible if the mother’s life is in danger, in the case of rape and if the couple took reasonable precautions to avoid pregnancy (birth control). Warren argues that the Court’s decision is too liberal. On her view, there should be no restrictions on abortion whatsoever.

When do you think abortion is morally permissible? If you agree with Noonan, explain why you think the arguments presented by Thomson and Warren are unconvincing. If you agree with Thomson, explain why you think the arguments presented by Noonan and Warren are unconvincing. If you agree with Warren, explain why you think the arguments presented by Noonan and Thomson are unconvincing.