more from Daniel C. Dennett

Single Idea 4872

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / F. Life Issues / 3. Abortion]

Full Idea

If a fetus that is being considered for abortion is known to be anencephalic (lacking a brain), this dramatically changes the issue for most people, though not for all.

Gist of Idea

Most people see an abortion differently if the foetus lacks a brain

Source

Daniel C. Dennett (Kinds of Minds [1996], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Dennett,Daniel C.: 'Kinds of Minds' [Phoenix 1997], p.8


A Reaction

A very effective point, as it is hard to see what grounds could be given for not aborting in this case. But the brain then clearly becomes the focus of why abortion is often rejected by many people.