Daniel Beck_Week 8_ Final Essay

.docx

School

Regent University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

250

Subject

Philosophy

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by LAWLIFE2325

1 Week 8 Assignment: Final Essay Daniel Beck College of Arts & Sciences, Regent University GENE 250: The Making of the Christian Life Dr. Michael L. Davis 10/10/2023

2 Week 8 Assignment: Final Essay A woman who has learned that her unborn child is suspected of having Down syndrome and is considering an abortion is facing a difficult decision. She already has three small children, and she feels the strain of having a child with special needs would be more than she could bear. This complex issue raises questions about the Bible, morality, and utilitarianism. The decision to terminate a pregnancy is an overwhelmingly personal one, and it is vital to consider all the factors involved. While some people believe that it is biblically and morally wrong to terminate a pregnancy due to a Down syndrome diagnosis, others argue that it is a woman’s right to choose. They may also use utilitarian reasoning to support their argument. In this essay, I will explore the arguments for and against terminating a pregnancy due to a Down syndrome diagnosis. I will explore both religious and secular perspectives, as well as utilitarian reasoning. Ultimately, I will argue that terminating a pregnancy due to a diagnosis of Down syndrome is the wrong decision from all perspectives. Biblical Reasons The woman’s unborn child having Down syndrome is undoubtedly not good news. The Bible's first book clarifies that humans are made in the image of God ( English Standard Version , 2020, Genesis 1:27). This verse highlights God’s love for humanity by emphasizing our inherent worth and equality as human beings, deserving of love and respect. Humans are to reflect that love and respect towards one another with the last six of the Ten Commandments, which “concerns our relationships with one another” (Ryken, 2010, p. 15). The most apparent commandment that would be broken if she had the abortion would be “you shall not murder” ( English Standard Version , 2020, Exodus 20:13). Abortion is a direct attack on the life of an innocent human being. It violates the right to life that every human being

3 possesses from the moment of conception. The woman’s fear does not justify the taking of an innocent life. The unborn child is still a human being with dignity and worth, and that child deserves to be protected and cherished just like any other human. The woman is responsible for caring for her children, including those in her womb, and providing them with the love and support they need to thrive. Abortion would be a violation of the Fifth Commandment because it would be the intentional killing of an innocent human being, and it would be an injustice against the child in the womb. Instead of resorting to abortion, the woman should seek out resources and support to help her care for her child. Inclusively, she should trust that God will give her the strength and peace to face the challenges ahead. The pregnant woman is in an apparent predicament between potential hardship and taking the easy way out with an abortion. The Fifth Commandment is a “perfect, negative duty, or moral absolutes” (Regent University, 2023). The perfect duty of this moral absolute means that the duty must always be followed no matter the circumstance. Also, the negative part of this moral absolute is the Fifth Commandment, “You shall not murder” ( English Standard Version , 2020, Exodus 20:13). Non-Biblical Reason Moral law is a set of principles that guide our actions and decisions. It is essential to consider the moral implications of abortion before deciding to go through with an abortion. Natural law is within the Moral law and is the primary focus. Natural law is “written on the hearts of humans” (Regent University, 2023b). In this case, why is murder wrong? How do you know it is wrong? It is not something that is taught but rather just known by instincts. Regarding the pregnant woman who is considering an abortion because of a Down syndrome diagnosis, she

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help