Is Abortion a Personal or Political Issue: A Comprehensive Analysis

The issue of abortion has long been a subject of debate, often blending personal and political dimensions. This article explores both perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex issue at hand.

The Personal and Spiritual Dimensions of Abortion

Abortion is more than a legal or political debate; it is a deeply personal choice that carries profound emotional, spiritual, and ethical implications. The following poem reflects the emotional journey of a mother who lost her child through abortion:

The Song of Morning Glory

Oh mother dear, I miss you
Though my time on Earth was brief
The Song of Morning Glory
Is the joy of my relief
I hear of your successes
And I follow you with pride
To know my dear, sweet mother
Has a fire deep inside
The feelings of eternity
Are like a spinning wheel
I know your heart is newly born
And gentle is your mind
The feelings of a recent past
Are often intertwined
But mother dear, I love you
For the future that will be
The glory of redemption
Is the time you spend with me.

This poem illustrates the complex emotions and personal connections that can arise in such situations. Mothers often have vivid imaginations and deep spiritual beliefs about the future of their aborted children, highlighting the personal and emotional implications of abortion.

A Partisan Debate in the USA

While some countries, like Canada, view abortion as a personal matter, it has taken a more political turn in the United States. The political dimensions of abortion have been shaped by various factors, including polarizing public opinion and political influence. This has led to significant legal challenges and ongoing debates.

For instance, 'old men' deciding matters for 'young women' is a prevalent critique of the political discourse surrounding abortion. The issue is not only about the rights of the unborn but also about the rights of women to make their own choices. In recent years, legislations and court rulings have often placed women at the center of these discussions, with the emphasis on their autonomy and personal rights.

A Medical Decision, Not a Political One

Contrary to the politicking and moral debates, abortion is fundamentally a medical decision. Throughout history and across different cultures, there has been a long-standing acceptance that a fetus is not yet a person. Jewish teachings, Christian teachings, and U.S. laws have all acknowledged this fact.

6000 years of Jewish teaching 2000 years of Christian teaching 250 years of U.S. law The U.S. Constitution Benjamin Franklin's published abortion recipes

These historical and cultural precedents indicate that abortion is fundamentally a medical issue, not a moral, ethical, religious, or legal one. Only the woman who is pregnant should have the final decision, guided by her doctor's advice.

The political aspect of abortion often revolves around the right of women to make this personal choice without undue interference. Right-wingers may argue that forcing women to remain pregnant goes against their will, but the core issue remains the woman's right to make her own medical decisions.

Conclusion

Abortion is both a personal and political issue. It is a deeply personal choice with profound emotional and spiritual implications, as illustrated by the poem. At the same time, it has been dragged into the political arena, often leading to debates and conflicts. However, the resolution of these issues should ultimately be guided by the principle of personal autonomy and medical expertise.

The key takeaways are that abortion is fundamentally a personal and medical decision, not a political one. The focus should be on ensuring that women have access to safe and accessible abortion services, while respecting their right to privacy and personal choice.