Ian C. Kuzushi wrote:I think these are important and challenging questions. I haven't come to a conclusion on them as of yet. I'm reading lots of philosophy these days, but I am not sure if it helps me to come to conclusions about deep questions or to just spend more time pondering them.
As for the state of embryos: I really doubt that there is much similarity to sleep in the early stages especially when one reads about sleep and some of the potential reasons we partake in the activity. I think it has a lot to do with sorting information, forming memory, etc...Not things a few hundred cells would do. As for convenience, I think I understand what you are getting at, but I would again posit that I don't think anyone plans or wants to get an abortion (okay, there are always some strange people out there, but in general). And, I don't think it is always a matter of personal convenience, either. In some extreme examples, it could have to do with personal safety (not even talking about medical issues). There are some messed up laws in some states and the rapist can claim parental rights and be a constant presence in their victim's lives. To be sure, it's a complex issue.
As I have stated, why doesn't everyone work to make them less common? Why are conservatives the biggest hurdle here? I think it's because they are not being honest about why they have a problem with it.
Yeah, these are not easy questions for sure.
Embryos - sorry if I was unclear, but I meant embryos in later stages (certainly a brain is required, I think). But as you say, sleep has a primary role in learning (and unlearning) and seems to be a key mode of our brain, so I wonder what this means for us when we are embryos/fetuses and under development.
As for convenience - although in debates, people often bring up rape or mother's danger, I think that the majority of abortions are carried out for reasons like economics (perceived lack of money to raise another child), personal reasons (child was conceived in good times, but now divorce is pending, so no longer want the child), and irresponsibility (enjoyed free sex, child was conceived, so want to "undo" it).
I agree that conservatives could frame the issue differently to actually go towards making positive changes.