Moral Status Theories on Fetal Abnormality

Moral Status Theories
Author’s Name
Institutional Affiliation
Course Code and Name
Professor’s Name
Date
Moral Status Theories
Based on the Christian perspective of human nature, all people are created in the image and likeness of God. Unlike other creatures, humans are unique, which is the reason they have more authority than other animals. They are expected to establish a good relationship with God by adhering to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Humans are supposed to show love and care to others, especially their children since they are allowed to procreate. In that light, they have an obligation to look after each other and are prohibited from killing. One of the commandments depicts that do not kill. Since Christianity is deeply rooted in the care and love of God for humanity, Christians are entitled to give birth and take care of their young ones (Ottuh & Idjakpo, 2021). Children are blessings from God. Besides, Christians believe that life begins at conception, meaning that embryos or fetuses should be treated with respect and dignity. The theory of moral status that is compatible with Christianity is deontological ethics. Indeed, it emphasizes treating humans equally and with respect and dignity. The concept is related to intrinsic human dignity and value in that it prioritizes handling humans well, including unborn babies. Individuals are encouraged to care for and love each other by avoiding all things that might threaten human life.
In determining the fetus’ moral status, Dr. Wilson relies on scientific and cognitive properties theories. He applies scientific methods, such as ultrasound scanning, to identify the health condition of Jessica’s fetus. The outcomes indicate that the fetus has an abnormality or rare condition that has prevented it from developing arms, which are not likely to grow. Moreover, there is a 25% chance that the fetus will have Down syndrome. Based on the cognitive properties theory, every human should demonstrate and possess understanding, memory, thinking, and awareness. However, Jessica’s baby if born will not meet all these aspects of the cognitive theory, which is why Dr. Wilson suggests abortion to be the best medical decision. Marco uses cognitive theory to determine the moral status of his wife’s fetus. On the contrary, Maria and Jessica are guided by moral agency and relationship theories. They believe that all lives are sacred and that they start after conception (Tozer, 2022). Based on God’s teachings, abortion is not a choice since it entails terminating the life of the fetus. On that note, Maria says that God has a reason for what is happening to Jessica’s fetus and that she should keep her pregnancy. Besides, Maria makes Jessica think abou...