Moral Status
Abortion is a common subject in legal, moral, and ethical talks about religion. It becomes complicated since both pro-life and pro-choice members derive their conclusions from either legal, ethical, or religious guidelines, which are often intrinsic. In the case study presented for this course, Jessica and Marco face a major dilemma which entails aborting or maintaining a pregnancy. The couple may be identified as financially unstable as seen in the number of hours they work and the nature of their jobs. Besides, they fail to seek early prenatal care. Four months later, preliminary results of the ultrasound test indicate that the fetus is disabled – without arms, and has a quarter chance of suffering Down syndrome. Dr. Wilson, the attending office affirms that from a scientific and medical viewpoint, abortion is the best option for the couple. Aunt Maria, who hosts the couple is adamant that the pregnancy should be maintained. Marco is ready to support his wife through the decision that she makes. However, Jessica is indecisive as both choices have underlying consequences. Since Christianity is represented in the case, the recommendations each makes are based on moral theories in relation to the Christian view of the nature of humans.
From a Christians’ perspective, the nature of humans is such that humans are a valuable species created by God in his likeness. The fundamental understanding is derived from the account of creation recorded in the Bible, Genesis 1:26-27. The verse depicts God saying “Let us make man in our image…,” a verse that is accepted by other major religions. In addition, theologians expound that the in-God’s likeness, a fundamental meaning is that all humans are created perfectly, as God himself is perfect. That is, every human species is perfectly suited to their purpose, which is largely influenced by how God fashioned them. Rather, each person has a gift that is tailored to suit specific purposes during their lifetime. In regard to the observation that all humanity has a purpose for each person, the uniqueness of an individual does not categorize but treats all humans as equals (Holy Bible, Galatians 3:28). In other words, beyond any logical conclusion, Christian teachings insist that people should have the will power to treat other humans as equals, noticing their unique perfections, as all are images of God. Such a conclusion is in line with the moral agency theory of moral status.
