#STRask Is the Principle of Double Effect Legitimate When It Comes to Abortion?
Oct 24, 2024
The podcast dives into the ethically charged principle of double effect, questioning its legitimacy in abortion contexts, especially when a mother's life is at stake. It tackles whether pregnant women should be forced to choose between their lives and their babies'. The discussion also scrutinizes legal complexities surrounding non-viable pregnancies and how pro-life policies can hinder medical care. Finally, it debates the strategic choice of remaining in pro-choice areas to inspire change versus relocating to pro-life regions, highlighting personal circumstances in decision-making.
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Principle of Double Effect
- The principle of double effect applies to moral dilemmas with both good and bad consequences.
- It is morally defensible if the negative effect is unintended and humans are not treated as mere means.
D-Day Example
- Greg Kokel uses D-Day as an example of the principle of double effect.
- The Allied forces intended to liberate Europe, foreseeing civilian casualties, but not intending them.
Double Effect in Abortion
- In life-threatening pregnancies, terminating the pregnancy to save the mother can be morally justifiable.
- This is acceptable under double effect if the intention is to save the mother, not kill the baby.