-Slippery slope argument

The slippery slope argument occurs when one one action is taken and it results in a chain reaction
causing other more severe consequences and actions. In the documentary the primary argument provided
by the pro-choice movement is based on the idea that if abortion is legalized or allowed under certain
circumstances it will inevitably lead to an erosion of moral values and acceptance of controversial
practices. This thought mechanism effectively blinds them in scenarios even where there may be some
dire underlying problems that are not immediately known.

When watching the documentary I sensed that the primary problem was creating a sense of shame
for the opposing side, whether you are on the side of pro life or pro choice there should be a clear line
between offensive rhetoric and taking steps to support mothers (often in turbulent households). An
interesting observation that was quite jarring to me was the clear disregard by pro choice
movement/supporters standing idle near abortion clinics and harrassing (to some degree abusing) the
freedoms of some women. Even if someone is pro life or pro choice, it is maleficent to treat the
opposition in such a manner. It is interesting to note that some would choose to ignore or misunderstand
another individual's reasons for taking an abortion.

-Regulations in Canada

At the moment there is no law that criminalizes the act of abortion in Canada, additionally to
make the procedure safe it is a publicly funded endeavor (all you have to show is some proof of
identification in terms of a health card). It is important to note that although the federal written law
provides a lot of leniency and vagueness the Government of Alberta condemns and disapproves late- term
abortions (the latest being under 20 weeks).

-Heartbeat laws (US)

The primary “scientifically sound” argument that anti abortion legislators have pushed towards
are the fetal heartbeat laws. In essence, the opposition (to Roe v Wade) has an interest in creating
legislation that actively prohibits abortion at the moment there is cardiac activity in the embryo. Many
reputable journals argue that this is not scientifically accurate nor ethically sound. This lies in the
underlying fact that current instruments for the monitoring of fetal heartbeat may range in sensitivity,
from multiple different sources of error, including but not limited to supply chain mismanagement, quality
control checks and cost to care ratio.

-Age of consent
 The ethical argument for pro-choice regarding issues with the age of consent is based on the
concept of bodily autonomy and the right to self determination. It is predicated on the idea that
individuals have the right to make decisions about their own bodies, including decisions about whether or
not to carry a pregnancy to term. The age of consent laws aim to protect minors from exploitation and
abuse.

When a minor becomes pregnant, they may not have the same level of maturity of resources as an
adult to make informed decisions about their pregnancy. However denying a minor access to dame and
legal abortion services can have serious consequences.

-Circumstances - does it matter?

The argument of pro-life and pro-choice definitely shapes the future of a nation, family and
individual, the position you take will most likely have a compounding effect in how you view the world.
Thus I do believe having the discussion is important and the context for each individual
story/circumstance is also of extreme importance.

-Main arguments on both sides

The most powerful pro-life argument (in my opinion) is that human life begins at conception and
that abortion is morally the same as murder. Pro-life advocates argue that there is a right to life from the
moment of conception. They argue that a fetus is a human being, deserving of the same rights and
protections as any other person. Pro-life advocates often appeal to religious and moral principles,
asserting that all life is sacred. Another powerful pro-life argument is that abortion harms women by
subjecting them to physical and emotional trauma.Arguing that abortion is a traumatic and often
regrettable experience that can lead to negative health outcomes.

Pro-Choice Arguments:

The most powerful pro-choice argument is that women have a right to autonomy and reproductive
freedom. Pro-choice advocates argue that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own
bodies and lives, including decisions about whether or not to carry out pregnancy. Asserting that the
government should not have the power to control a woman's choices, and that restricting access to
abortion is a violation of this fundamental right.
 Another powerful pro-choice argument is that restricting access to abortion leads to unsafe and
illegal abortions, which can result in significant harm. Pro-choice advocates argue that when abortion is
illegal or highly restricted, women are forced to seek out unsafe and often deadly methods to terminate
their pregnancies. Leading to serious physical harm, specifically for women who are poor and living in
areas with limited access to healthcare. Pro-choice advocates assert that making abortion safe and legal is
the only way to protect women's health and wellbeing.

-How do we decide? Who decides?

To begin with, the decision to have an abortion is a deeply personal one that should be made by
the woman who is directly affected by it. Furthermore, mothers are uniquely positioned to make informed
decisions about an action that will permanently affect their reproductive health. They have the experience
and knowledge of what it means to carry and give birth to a child. This experience gives them a level of
understanding and insight into the consequences of having a child that others simply cannot match.
Mothers are more likely to consider the potential risks and benefits of having a child, such as the
emotional, financial, and physical tolls. Thus they are better equipped to make an informed decision about
whether or not to have an abortion. Additionally, mothers have a special bond with their unborn children
that cannot be replicated by anyone else. This bond gives mothers a unique perspective on the value and
meaning of human life. This is why I believe that women should have the right to decide whether or not
to terminate a pregnancy, as they are the ones who will be responsible for the child's well-being and
upbringing.

-Access, cost, safety, etc.

In my opinionated perspective, I believe that access does not simply mean abortion clinics
(although it definitely plays an important role) but rather investments in infrastructure such as maternity
leave, income support for single mothers, food security for those in need.