Marquis on the Wrongness of Abortion

These flashcards encapsulate key vocabulary and concepts related to the ethical discussions surrounding abortion as presented by Marquis.

Future-of-Value Principle

The moral principle that killing is wrong because it deprives the victim of a future filled with experiences, activities, and enjoyments.

Prima Facie

A term meaning 'at first look'; it indicates a presumptive status that can be overridden by other compelling factors.

Reflective Equilibrium

A methodology for testing moral principles by evaluating their explanatory power in different situations.

Moral Status vs. Legal Status

The focus on the ethical implications of abortion, rather than its legal ramifications.

Thesis of Marquis

The position that the overwhelming majority of deliberate abortions are seriously immoral.

Subject-of-a-Life

Regan's concept referring to beings capable of experiencing their life, which gives intrinsic value to their lives.

Moral Rights

Thomson's framework discussing the rights of individuals involved in the abortion debate.

Criticism of Standard Arguments

Marquis's analysis begins by challenging common arguments for and against abortion, such as defining human life from conception.

Loss of Future Value

What makes killing adult human beings wrong, as they are deprived of their future experiences and potential.

Case of Euthanasia

A controversial case discussed in the context of killing individuals who may not suffer a loss if euthanized.

Activities, Projects, Experiences, Enjoyments

Key components that constitute a person's future life, which are lost when they are killed.

Marquis' Conclusion on Abortion

Abortion is considered prima facie morally wrong because it deprives a fetus of a future-of-value.

Vulcans, Kelpiens

Examples of non-human beings whose lives may also be valued due to their future-of-value, according to Marquis.

Begging the Question

Assuming a premise that is at issue in a debate, which is considered fallacious reasoning in philosophy.

Compelling Reasons

Conditions under which abortion may be justified, such as threats to the mother's life.

Importance of Future in Morality

Marquis argues the moral wrongness of killing is grounded in the loss of a person's future.

Non-persons in Moral Consideration

The concept that some non-human beings deserve moral consideration due to their potential for a valuable future.