Qualitative changes in reproductive policy and induced abortion
Rothe, J.
Zeitschrift für Arztliche Fortbildung 74(9): 437-440
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0044-2178 PMID: 7434814 Document Number: 163461
Various social and ethical aspects of induced abortion are discussed. In Germany, abortion in all forms was considered a criminal offense. In 1927, the medical indication for the performing of abortion was approved, followed by the ethical, eugenic, and social indications. The World Health Organization defines health as "physical, mental, and social wellbeing". The Communist party in Germany strove to have abortion legalized in order to reduce suffering caused by unwanted children, and to facilitate to equalization of women. Many consider abortion to be murder. Although life can be considered to begin at conception, this is the development "to human being". The development of "of human being" begins at birth, and this development is to be protected at all costs. The performance of abortions only up to the 12th week of pregnancy is insurance that the development "of a human being" will not be inhibited.