FREE ESSAY ON ABORTION PROBLEM SOLVING PROJECT

ABORTION PROBLEM SOLVING PROJECT

Justin Horn
FCS 151-03
Dr. Josee Forell
November 19, 2000
Problem Solving Project
Summary
Every year, throughout the world, there are an estimated 36 to 53 million abortions
performed. Of these, only about 26 to 31 million are legal (King 158). Further, in the
U.S. alone, nearly one-third of all pregnancies end in abortion. 
Abortion, to say the least, is a controversial topic in today's society and has been for
the last two decades. Two opposing sides emerge from this problem: Those opposed to
abortion, "Pro-life", have concerns about protecting human life. On the other hand, those
in favor of abortion, "Pro-choice", feel it is the right of the individual to make the
decision for themselves. A 1996 Gallup poll showed that 83% of Americans were in favor of
a woman's right to choose. However, in 1998, a similar poll showed that while the
majority of Americans were still pro-choice, they felt that an abortion should be harder
to get.
Problem
In the last 2 decades, abortion has become a growing target for criticism as well as
acceptance in today's changing society. There has been much controversy as to what
abortion should be considered as- life or death. Should it be a choice, or should it be
the equivalent of murder? In the context of defining abortion, there has been many
stipulations as to what constitutes abortion- when does life inside the whom actually
begin?
Valued Ends
When dealing with such a sensitive topic as abortion, in which there are in fact two
extremely diverse viewpoints, it is difficult to present a sensible answer to the way it
should be. In the "best of all possible worlds" women should be able to live their lives
in the way that suits them best. Society places heavy opinions on women who have had or
are planning to have abortions; this in turn has an impact on the well being of the
woman. 
Secondly, women are placed in a very difficult situation when they become pregnant and
are not expecting it. Society should be supportive and willing to help emotionally and/or
financially in her time of need.
Possible Solutions and Consequences
*Provide society with a positive understanding of the purpose of abortion through the use
of government action.
--Many people would remain unchanged in their ways, especially as it pertains to
religious views. However, with knowledge comes wisdom. If people were better informed,
they might not assume a false truth in the matter.
*Make it illegal for people to take negative action against women having an abortion.
--This would make a woman feel better about her decision. Many women, after having an
abortion feel emotional distress, mainly due to societal opinions.
*Provide women with a greater understanding of the decision they are about to make.
--After being informed of possible consequences of their actions, woman may then make a
more educated decision, which would in turn alleviate public tensions.
One Workable Solution
As it was said previously, when dealing with such a sensitive topic as abortion, in which
there are two extremely diverse viewpoints, it is difficult to present a sensible answer
to the way it should be. This being said, the most sensible and practical solution to
this problem would be to provide society with a positive understanding of the purpose of
abortion and hope people will make a positive change in their view about abortion.
If I was the one involved in this type of situation I would feel better knowing that
people are trying to help others realize the hardships I am facing. Others would benefit
from this solution as well because it is the most sensible solution for such a difficult
problem. Government has already made it legal for abortions to take place, now we just
need to work on the negative opinions of society. This solution does fit my personal
moral beliefs because I strongly feel that a woman should have the right, and the
confidence to make her own choice in the matter. 
Action Plan
In order to accomplish my solution, government would have to set up a national fund for
the production of information in the form of pamphlets, television and radio commercials,
endorsements from celebrities, and speeches by the president. I personally should present
my beliefs in a positive, constructive way so that it may catch on with people within my
surroundings.
Conclusion
Basically it comes down to this: Abortion is a problem that will never be completely
solved, but it is very possible that it may be remedied a great deal with the correct
measures. A positive attitude and an open mind will help to unfold a society in which
people can respect one another's decisions no matter their opinions.
I have learned from this project that I do in fact feel strongly about this problem in
society. It is a problem that deserves and requires a great deal of attention, and only
people with a strong desire to help will be able to make a difference.
This exercise was required because it demonstrates a constructive way to present personal
judgments using factual evidence on a controversial topic- a problem that has two diverse
sides and a need for a solution.