The purpose of this research is to review the controversial abortion issue. A review of the current literature indicates that ever-increasing numbers are taking sides, either with pro-life groups who oppose the practice of abortion or with pro-choice groups who advocate the right of every women to govern her own body. This paper will address pro and con arguments regarding abortion as well as the history of abortion in the United States, including legal, moral, social, and religious aspects.
Abortions were first permitted in the United States between 1660 and 1776 (Rosenblatt 3:8). The colonies, following English common law, authorized abortions. The people had authority and reportedly, treated it with benign tolerance. For example, since the majority of their congregations accepted abortion, the clergy (particularly Protestant) also accepted abortion.
Acceptance of abortion began to change in the late eighteenth century. Between 1820 and 1840, the medical profession seized authority over the issue and lobbied the states to adopt restrictive legislation. The impetus for the doctors' movement was threefold: (a) doctors considered themselves sole custodians of decisions pertaining to life, (b) doctors held the view that a woman's social role was to increase and nurture the population, and (c) doctors sought to drive nonphysician practitioners (midwives, pharmacists, homeopaths) who attended women out of business.
By 1841, ten states had passed restrictive abortion laws. Between 1860 and 1880, anti-abortion laws were written in 40 states and territories. However, resistance abounded. America's mainline Protestant churches did not support the medical profession's crusade because the practice remained common in their congregations. Still, physicians persisted until 1900; then, doctors no longer pressed the issue but for the next 50 years the profession held that abortions should only be permitted when a woman's life ...