"Human life is sacred and should be safeguarded regardless of circumstances." Discuss this statement in relation to either abortion or voluntary euthanasia.

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"Human life is sacred and should be safeguarded regardless of circumstances." Discuss this statement in relation to either abortion or voluntary euthanasia.

It is impossible to discuss the issue of abortion and voluntary euthanasia without taking into consideration the emotional topic," the sanctiy of life."

The question of abortion illustrates the different views held for the sacredness of human life.

To discuss abortion or even euthanasia, is to discuss the meaning not only of when does life begin or when and how life should be terminated, but the meaning of the precious "thing" we all call life.

It is important to discuss, when considering abortion, why human life is so special, and in a religious sense so sacred.

The Christian belief in life being a special gift given to humanity by God; to take away that gift is wrong and is supported by scripture.

"You shall not kill'

"Do not commit murder"1

For God to forbid the killing of any human, clearly illustrates that human life is precious, and should be maintained at all means.

Life then is seen as a sacred gift from God. The individual has no power over it,

"Then one would conclude that the individual must do everything possible to keep human life in existence.2"

Another definition is given,

"The sanctity of life is often taken to mean the preservation of life at all costs, so intrinsically valuable is it."3
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Difficulty then arises when one is to talk about the sacredness of life and for it to be safeguarded. This is because there is confusion as to when life begins.

Does it begin at;

-the moment of fertilisation?

-the moment of implantation?

-when the foetus inside?

-when the foetus is capable of survival?

-when the birth takes place?

-when the child is fully independent of the parents?

Some anti-abortion campaigns believe the point at which life begins is the point at which the heartbeat can be detected. Detection of the ...

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