Three Approaches to Abortion

Christian philosopher, theologian and ethicist Peter Kreeft approaches the abortion debate with formidable intellect and an accessible writing style in Three Approaches to Abortion, which is a series of prolife defenses (as opposed to three different views on the issue). He starts with a 15-clause argument beginning with the statement "We know what an apple is" and concluding with the declaration that abortion is always wrong. While the progression is fairly complex, it is logically intact and compelling.

The middle section simply presents 15 prolife arguments covering everything from the meaning of life, to patriotism, to sex and feminism. While Kreeft's arguments are always informed by his Christianity, many of them are not specifically religious in orientation, but he concludes with a powerful statement concerning the image of God—a necessary element in a Christian book about abortion, but not necessarily a compelling argument for non-Christians.

In the final approach, Kreeft falls back on his forté:a philosophical dialogue in the Socratic tradition. Two ethnically and religiously diverse women—one prochoice, one prolife—discuss the issue logically, ethically and emotionally. Both sides are accurately and fairly presented, though of course the dialogue ends in favor of the prolife position. By putting the debate in this context, Kreeft manages to humanize and put in perspective an all-too-often highly abstract cultural conversation.

Whether you're looking for support for your prolife position or know someone who struggles with what side to take in the abortion war (as Kreeft aptly calls it), this is an excellent choice. Morally and philosophically based (rather than medically or psychologically), the arguments presented will appeal much more broadly as they require little to no technical background for comprehension. Kreeft's clear thinking and excellent writing make this one of the best introductions to the issues in the abortion debate available.

Review by C. Hollis Crossman C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he is a husband and father, teaches adult Sunday school in his Presbyterian congregation, and likes weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews here.

Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews here.