1. Abortion
When Does Life Begin?

2. When Does Life Begin? Conception Quickening Birth Viability
Much of the debate surrounding abortion is focused around when life actually begins.
Conception
Quickening
Birth
Viability

3. Conception The moment the egg is fertilised.
According to many - especially the Catholic Church - the fertilised egg or embryo must be treated as a person.
The fertilised egg contains the full genetic code of the human being.
Does the beginning of biological life mean the foetus has the right to live?

4. Quickening
When the foetus first moves in the womb ( weeks after fertilisation)
Derives from a Christian theory that this is when the foetus gets its soul
There is no medical precedent for this being the start time for human rights

5. Viability When the foetus is able to survive outside of the womb.
Used to govern laws on abortion.
The foetus’ ability to survive outside the womb depends on various factors such as, medical facilities, gender, race etc.
At the moment this is accepted to be 24 weeks although babies have survived outside the womb before this.
Should a baby’s right to life depend on such things as race, gender and medical facilities?

6. Birth When has a baby actually been born?
When part of the baby is outside the mother’s body?
When the whole baby is outside the mother’s body?
When the placenta is separated from the womb and the baby has to fend for itself?
Should a baby’s right to life depend on whether that baby is inside or outside the womb?

8. Pro – Life Pro - Choice Life is a gift from God
A woman should have the right to choose what happens to her own body
Abortion isn’t the only option
An embryo isn’t a life
The most basic human right is the right to life
A woman shouldn’t be forced to give birth to a disabled baby
Only God has the right to take away life
The health of the woman is the most important
Abortion is murder
A rape victim should not have to go through a pregnancy

9. Homework
“Abortion is wrong” Discuss this statement. Include supported points of view and your own. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.
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