The Problem of Rhetoric in the Abortion Debate
The “my body, my choice” motto is effective because it is seemingly reasonable and concise. This aphorism has two strong implications. Firstly, it frames pregnancy as being relevant to the mother’s body and no one else’s. Secondly, it establishes that one has the right to perform any action with their body. If it is your body that is relevant to the situation, it is your prerogative to do what you choose.
However, because of its convincing nature, many pro-choice individuals shut off their ears when anything contests the phrase. As a result, reasoning becomes impossible and dialogue shuts down. This is particularly frustrating because the truths that they’re trying to convey don’t hold up against scrutiny. To the idea that there is only one body inside of the abortion conversation, it is undeniably false. Look at this post as a means of seeing how biologists are certain that the fetus is a human life. A simple way of understanding how the fetus is alive is that an abortion is only deemed successful if the fetus dies; you can’t die unless you are alive. Regarding the idea that one has complete sanctity over the actions of their body, an individual's atonomy is almost always relinquished when they attempt to harm another human being. Even the pro-choice individual believes it just when a murder is placed in jail because they have misused their freedom. Similarly, a mother who chooses to kill her conceived child is also misusing her freedom. The slogan does not work when action is taken to prevent a murder.
How then does one get around the block that forms around the mind due to rhetoric? Foremost, I believe that actions speak louder than words; instead of just arguing with the individual, have experiences that allow for common oneliners to be thrown to the wayside. “You guys don’t care about what happens to the kids after they’re born.” Adopt and encourage others to make space for foster children, help at your local pregnancy center, and help those in need. “You all are anti-woman.” Promote and serve organizations like Support After Abortion that care for women who have been harmed by the injustice of abortion. There will always be those who are unwilling to listen, but those with an open-mind will respond to seeing real action in people.
As we continue to engage with those who do believe in the sanctity of all human life, it is crucial that we avoid always responding with the same oneliners, as to avoid mindlessly falling into the same trap of rhetoric. Fully explain the pro-life point of view and work to restore the dignity of the unborn.
-Kenan Blakey, RTL Blog Editor 2023-2024
