The Ethical and Practical Implications of Making Abortion Illegal While Prohibiting Departure

It is important to discuss the ethical and practical implications of the argument that, if abortion were to become illegal, it should also be illegal to leave someone with whom you got pregnant.

Ethical Considerations of Parental Responsibility

While men do have little legal say in abortion procedures related to their genetic contributions, they are already held accountable for financial responsibilities, regardless of how the pregnancy was conceived, except in specific cases involving In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). In developed countries, men, who have an equal stake in bringing a child to birth, are usually mandated to contribute to child support, assuming the intercourse was consensual and the woman knew the implications.

However, the suggestion that individuals must remain in a relationship as a result of pregnancy, regardless of their willingness or ability to be involved, is a significant ethical concern. Those who choose to continue a pregnancy due to personal, financial, or other reasons should have the freedom to do so without coercion from the legal system or societal norms.

Practical Challenges of Enforcing Such Legislation

Assuming abortion was made illegal, does the law inherently imply that men must remain in a relationship indefinitely, or even marry the woman? Or is the law suggesting something else entirely?

Checking and accountability for child support and involvement can be legally enforced through courts. However, imposing restrictions that would legally mandate individuals to stay in relationships that may not be beneficial or ethical for either party is a different matter altogether.

Communication and cohabitation requirements need to be clearly defined. If such a stringent law were enacted, how would the legal system ensure compliance? Would it necessitate compulsory cohabitation, communication frequency, or even geographical proximity?

The definition of "leaving the woman" poses another challenge. Should it mean staying in a legal relationship, which might not legally recognize the relationship as a marriage or partnership? It would be a complex legal scenario with numerous unforeseen ramifications.

Legalizing Dating Processes

While legalizing the process of dating may sound absurd, the broader question is whether it reinforces or undermines the autonomy of individuals. Forcing individuals to stay in relationships against their will can have severe psychological and emotional consequences, and it may not be the most effective solution.

Instead of legal enforcement, providing support and resources for individuals to make informed decisions and choose responsible options would be more beneficial. This could include counseling, financial support, and community programs aimed at promoting healthy relationships and choices.

Conclusion

Whether or not abortion should be illegal is a complex and often contentious issue. However, making it illegal and simultaneously prohibiting individuals from leaving a pregnancy relationship is a misguided, impractical, and potentially harmful approach.

It is crucial to balance ethical considerations with practical realities to ensure a just and equitable legal system. Individuals should have the freedom to make their own decisions regarding their relationships and pregnancies, with adequate support and resources available when needed.

Moreover, pro-choice and pro-life perspectives play a significant role in this debate. However, the crux of the discussion lies in ensuring that any laws or policies related to pregnancy and abortion reflect the best interests of all parties involved—respecting autonomy, promoting ethical behavior, and supporting responsible choices.