Previous Post

Rhetoric in the Abortion Debate

When it comes to the abortion debate, it’s hard not to notice words being wielded about like weapons on a battlefield. One look at the opposing sides of the issue and it’s clear that the question of who’s right in the abortion debate is mixed up in rhetorical battle. On the pro-life side, terms like “pro-abortion” and “anti-life” are often used to describe those in favour of abortion. On the pro-choice side of the issue, the term “anti-choice” is used in the same way, referring to those opposed to abortion. These terms exist as an appeal to sympathizers of either cause. Those fighting for the right to life identify their opponents as those in opposition to life. For this reason, the use of the terms “pro-abortion” or “anti-life” are powerful rhetorical tools because they place those in favour of abortion in direct opposition to the defence of life. Likewise, the term “anti-choice” places self-proclaimed “pro-lifers” in opposition to a woman’s freedom to choose.

Did You Know?

Did you know that no laws regulating abortion exist in Canada? This means that abortions can be performed up until the moment of birth!