ETHC 445 Week 7 Course Project Milestone – Final Paper

Student Name

Chamberlain University

ETHC-445 Principles of Ethics

Prof. Name

Date

Abortion

Abortion remains one of the most debated ethical and social issues in modern society. Pro-choice advocates argue that women possess the fundamental right to make decisions regarding their reproductive health, emphasizing bodily autonomy and self-determination. From this standpoint, an embryo is not considered equivalent to a fully developed baby, as it lacks characteristics such as rational thought, consciousness, and the capacity to feel pain. In contrast, pro-life advocates argue that abortion is a violation of the right to life, equating it with the unjust termination of a human being. This tension underscores the ongoing struggle between individual freedom and moral obligations toward unborn life.

The Moral Dilemma

Maria, an 18-year-old, experienced the complexities of relationships through online dating, resulting in sexual encounters with multiple partners. When she discovered her pregnancy, her fear stemmed not only from uncertainty about the child’s father but also from her parents’ strong religious beliefs, which considered abortion a grave sin. Faced with societal judgment and familial expectations, Maria sought guidance from a friend and visited an abortion clinic.

Initially, she attempted a medical abortion through prescribed pills, which caused severe pain and distress. When the medication failed, she underwent a surgical abortion. Although the procedure was completed successfully, Maria was left battling guilt, emotional distress, and depression. Her fear of parental disapproval overshadowed her recovery, highlighting the profound psychological and physical consequences that can follow such decisions. This case reflects the complex intersection of cultural, religious, and personal pressures that influence women’s choices, as well as the health risks associated with unsafe or unsupported abortions.

Ethical Considerations

When evaluating Maria’s decision, several ethical frameworks provide different perspectives.

Ethical Egoism

Ethical egoism suggests that individuals should act in ways that best serve their own interests (Rachels, 2018). From this perspective, Maria’s choice to prioritize her emotional and personal well-being over external pressures, including her parents’ religious beliefs, is ethically justified. Ethical egoists argue that her autonomy is paramount, and thus her decision to undergo an abortion supports her long-term best interests.

Social Contract Theory

Social contract theory focuses on the duties individuals have toward society. According to this framework, society imposes moral obligations to preserve life, including that of the fetus (Stark, 2019). Even though the fetus may not fully possess the qualities of personhood, it is still considered a human life deserving protection. From this viewpoint, Maria’s decision conflicts with her perceived obligations to societal norms and values, especially those shaped by religious teachings.

Role of Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare providers are bound by professional ethics, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics, which requires impartial and compassionate care (ANA, 2001). Regardless of personal beliefs, medical staff must respect Maria’s autonomy and support her decision. This professional responsibility ensures that patients like Maria receive unbiased care in emotionally charged circumstances.

Comparative Ethical Perspectives

To further clarify how different ethical theories approach abortion, the following table provides a summary:

Kantian Ethics

Lara Denis (2008) highlights that Kantian ethics recognizes autonomy as a cornerstone of moral action. While abortion raises profound questions, Kantian principles can justify it if the woman’s autonomy is respected and rational decision-making is preserved. Similarly, Manninen (2014) argues that embryos should not be equated with fully developed humans, as they lack rationality and consciousness. This stance strengthens the argument for respecting a woman’s right to make decisions about her reproductive health.

Aristotle’s Golden Mean

According to Aristotle (1999), virtue is achieved by finding a balance between extremes through rational judgment. In Maria’s case, her decision illustrates both fear and courage. Despite external pressures, she exercised bravery in prioritizing her health and future stability. Her actions demonstrate a pursuit of balance between her personal needs and the restrictive expectations of her family and society.

Utilitarianism

Utilitarian ethics emphasizes the outcomes of actions, prioritizing choices that maximize happiness and minimize harm (Felzmann, 2017). From this perspective, Maria’s abortion can be ethically justified if it relieves her distress, safeguards her mental health, and provides her with greater opportunities for personal growth. Since utilitarianism does not place intrinsic moral value on embryos, the focus remains on Maria’s well-being and long-term stability.

Natural Law Theory

Natural law theorists argue that moral decisions must align with divine laws or natural moral order (Irving, 2000). This perspective typically rejects abortion under any circumstances, including cases of rape or incest. However, modern interpretations suggest that women should retain autonomy in making decisions about their bodies, especially when their health or future stability is at risk. Advocates of reproductive rights argue that denying women such autonomy undermines their dignity and equality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Maria’s case reflects the profound moral, psychological, and societal complexities surrounding abortion. While pro-life advocates emphasize the sanctity of life, pro-choice perspectives prioritize autonomy and personal well-being. My position aligns with the pro-choice view, grounded in ethical egoism and utilitarianism. These frameworks emphasize a woman’s right to prioritize her health, stability, and future, even in the face of external pressures. Respecting autonomy remains essential in ensuring ethical and compassionate healthcare practices in reproductive decision-making.

References

American Nurses Association (ANA). (2001). Code of ethics for nurses. Washington, D.C.: American Nurses Association.

Aristotle. (1999). Nicomachean ethics (H. Rackham, Trans.). Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Denis, L. (2008). Animality and agency: A Kantian approach to abortion. Philosophy and Phenomenological Research, 76(1), 117–137. Wiley Online Library.

Felzmann, H. (2017). Utilitarianism as an approach to ethical decision making in health care. SpringerLink.

Irving, D. N. (2000). Abortion: Correct application of natural law theory. The Linacre Quarterly, 67(1), 45–61. https://epublications.marquette.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2215&context=lnq

ETHC 445 Week 7 Course Project Milestone – Final Paper

Manninen, B. A. (2014). A Kantian defense of abortion rights with respect for intrauterine life. Diametros, 39, 70–92. https://doi.org/10.13153/diam.39.2014.565

Rachels, J. (2018). The elements of moral philosophy. [VitalSource Bookshelf]. Retrieved from https://ambassadored.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781260213003/cfi/6/28!/4@0:0

Stark, P. (2019). Does an unborn human have rights? Appearance, ability, and attitude don’t justify lethal discrimination. Retrieved from MCCL.ORG