Why Abortion Should Be Illegal Essay Arguments Perspectives

The debate over abortion is one of the most polarizing issues in modern society. At its core lies a fundamental question: when does human life begin, and what rights does that life possess? While many advocate for reproductive freedom, others argue from moral, scientific, and legal standpoints that abortion should be illegal. This article examines key arguments supporting the position that abortion ought to be prohibited, presenting a range of philosophical, medical, and societal perspectives.

1. The Sanctity of Human Life from Conception

One of the central arguments against abortion is grounded in the belief that human life begins at conception. From this viewpoint, the embryo or fetus is not merely potential life but an actual human being with inherent dignity and a right to exist. Scientifically, at the moment of fertilization, a unique genetic code is formed—distinct from both mother and father—marking the beginning of a new organism.

Proponents of this argument assert that if the unborn are biologically human and genetically complete, they deserve legal protection equal to any other person. Denying this protection based on location (inside or outside the womb) or developmental stage undermines the principle of equal human value.

“We must recognize that every human being, regardless of age, size, or dependency, has intrinsic worth. The unborn child is no exception.” — Dr. Bernard Nathanson, former abortion provider and later pro-life advocate

Tip: When discussing fetal development, reference embryology textbooks or peer-reviewed studies to reinforce scientific accuracy.

2. Medical and Psychological Risks to Women

While abortion is often framed as a necessary component of women’s health care, critics argue that it carries significant physical and psychological risks. Complications such as infection, hemorrhage, uterine perforation, and long-term fertility issues can occur, particularly with repeated procedures or unsafe practices.

Beyond physical harm, some studies suggest a correlation between abortion and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially among women with prior mental health conditions. Though causality remains debated, the possibility of emotional aftermath challenges the narrative that abortion is universally beneficial or emotionally neutral.

Risk Category	Potential Effects
Physical	Infection, excessive bleeding, damage to cervix or uterus, future pregnancy complications
Psychological	Grief, guilt, anxiety, relationship strain, suicidal ideation
Societal	Normalization of early termination, reduced support for parenting alternatives

Real Example: A Patient's Aftermath

In a documented case study from a counseling center in Ohio, a 24-year-old woman sought therapy two years after an abortion. She reported recurring nightmares, difficulty bonding with her subsequent child, and feelings of isolation. Her therapist noted symptoms consistent with complex grief, emphasizing that while not all women experience such outcomes, dismissing emotional consequences can hinder access to compassionate care.

3. Alternatives to Abortion Are Viable and Supported

A critical point in the argument against legal abortion is the existence of practical, humane alternatives. Adoption, financial assistance programs, maternity housing, and community-based parenting support offer real solutions for women facing unplanned pregnancies.

Countries like Poland and Malta, where abortion is highly restricted, have developed robust networks of crisis pregnancy centers and government aid to help women choose life. These systems demonstrate that legal prohibition does not equate to lack of compassion—but rather a redirection of resources toward preserving both maternal and fetal well-being.

• Over 2 million U.S. families are waiting to adopt children.
• Federal and state programs provide WIC, Medicaid, childcare subsidies, and housing assistance.
• Nonprofits offer free ultrasounds, counseling, baby supplies, and job training.

4. Legal Consistency and the Precedent of Personhood

Laws across jurisdictions already recognize the unborn in certain contexts. For example, in cases of fetal homicide, many states prosecute violence against a pregnant woman that results in miscarriage as a separate crime. Similarly, prenatal injury caused by drunk driving or assault may lead to enhanced penalties.

This selective recognition creates a legal inconsistency: the unborn are protected when harmed by third parties but denied protection when terminated by choice. Critics argue that this contradiction weakens the rule of law and reflects societal bias rather than objective justice.

“If we punish someone for killing a fetus with intent, how can we justify allowing the same act upon request?” — Justice Clarence Thomas, concurring opinion in *Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization* (2022)

Step-by-Step: Building a Legal Case Against Abortion

1. Establish biological humanity: Cite embryology to confirm the fetus is a living member of Homo sapiens.
2. Demonstrate continuity of development: Show there is no meaningful biological threshold between embryo, fetus, infant, and adult.
3. Challenge viability arguments: Note that viability depends on technology, not inherent human value.
4. Highlight existing legal protections: Point to fetal homicide laws as precedent for personhood.
5. Advocate for equal protection: Argue that the 14th Amendment should extend to preborn citizens.

5. Societal and Ethical Implications

Legalizing abortion has broader cultural consequences. Some scholars warn that it contributes to a utilitarian view of human life—where value is assigned based on convenience, ability, or social acceptance. This mindset, they argue, can erode respect for vulnerable populations, including the disabled, elderly, and economically disadvantaged.

Moreover, sex-selective and disability-based abortions raise serious ethical concerns about discrimination. In countries where prenatal screening leads to high termination rates for Down syndrome (up to 90% in Iceland and Denmark), critics see a troubling message about which lives are deemed worthy of living.

Tip: Use international comparisons to highlight trends in selective abortion and their impact on societal values.

Checklist: Key Arguments for Why Abortion Should Be Illegal

• ✅ Human life begins at conception—biologically and genetically distinct.
• ✅ The unborn possess inherent dignity and a right to life.
• ✅ Abortion poses documented physical and psychological risks to women.
• ✅ Viable alternatives like adoption and support services exist.
• ✅ Legal systems already recognize fetal personhood in criminal cases.
• ✅ Permitting abortion undermines equality and encourages eugenic thinking.
• ✅ Protecting the defenseless strengthens moral foundations of society.

FAQ: Common Questions About Making Abortion Illegal

Does opposing abortion mean ignoring women’s rights?

No. Opponents of abortion often emphasize supporting women through comprehensive healthcare, economic aid, and social services. The goal is not to restrict women but to protect both mother and child, recognizing that true empowerment includes access to life-affirming options.

What about cases of rape or incest?

These are deeply tragic situations, and empathy is essential. However, many argue that the child should not be punished for the crime of the father. Support systems—including trauma counseling and open adoption—are encouraged to help survivors heal without resorting to further loss of life.

Won’t banning abortion lead to dangerous back-alley procedures?

This claim is frequently cited, but historical data is contested. Maternal mortality from illegal abortions before legalization was often exaggerated. Modern medicine and widespread education reduce risks significantly. Moreover, laws exist to deter many behaviors (e.g., drug use, prostitution), yet society still enforces them based on moral and public good.

Conclusion: Upholding the Right to Life

The movement to make abortion illegal rests on a profound conviction: that every human being, regardless of age, size, or stage of development, possesses an unalienable right to life. This principle does not diminish women’s dignity—it elevates it by refusing to force a choice between mother and child. With advances in medicine, social support, and legal frameworks, societies can protect both lives without coercion or shame.

As public discourse evolves, especially after shifts like the overturning of *Roe v. Wade*, the conversation must remain rooted in facts, compassion, and consistency. Laws shape culture, and cultures shape futures. By choosing to protect the most vulnerable among us, we affirm a vision of justice that leaves no one behind.

💬 What do you believe about the right to life? Share your thoughts, engage respectfully, and help foster a more informed dialogue on this critical issue.