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In arguments over abortion, both the conservative and the liberal agree that:

a) Abortion is always wrong
b) The fetus is not a person
c) Women have autonomy over their bodies
d) Abortion should be completely banned

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Neither conservative nor liberal views agree completely on any of the given statements regarding abortion; conservatives tend to ascribe rights to the fetus, while liberals focus on the pregnant individual's autonomy and rights. Philosophers like Warren argue that the fetus does not have personhood, supporting liberal perspectives regarding freedom of choice, but debates on the issue remain complex and nuanced.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing the contentious topic of abortion, it's important to understand that ideologically, conservatives and liberals often have fundamentally different perspectives. Nonetheless, for this question, none of the options given (a-d) unilaterally represent a point of agreement between conservative and liberal viewpoints. Conservatives generally view the fetus as having intrinsic rights that need protection, sometimes equating these rights with those of born individuals, while liberals typically emphasize the rights and autonomy of women over their bodies. Mary Anne Warren, a noted philosopher, argues that a fetus does not meet the criteria for personhood, and therefore does not possess a right to life that overrides the rights of the pregnant individual. This view reinforces the liberal argument for a pregnant person's right to choose, while conservatives would challenge her premise concerning fetal personhood.

The liberal agreement generally lies in upholding the right to bodily autonomy and recognizing that denying access to abortion can significantly infringe upon a woman's freedom, including her ability to participate equally in society. This participation encompasses educational pursuits, economic opportunities, and even civic rights such as voting—given that criminal penalties related to abortion could lead to disenfranchisement. Public debate on this issue remains heavily polarized, with court decisions like Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey reflecting shifts in the legal framework over time, balancing the privacy and rights of women against state interests in potential life.

Amidst these debates, both philosophical and practical considerations continue to shape opinions. While some claim a universal moral status for all humans based on species membership, others focus on the degree of harm reduction or the consequences of denying abortion access. Global perspectives also diverge, with different countries and cultures setting their own standards regarding the legality and ethics of abortion, influenced by a range of factors from religious doctrine to socio-economic imperatives.

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