Human Life: Objections
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The human life argument is often made, but it has many critics. One of the main questions at issue concerns the moral status of the embryo or fetus. Anyone who stresses the physiology of the embryo (e.g., the number of its chromosomes) must show that there is a connection between having that physiology and having full moral rights.

Consider these two uncontroversial points: (1) Adult human beings have 46 human chromosomes; but it doesn't follow that every being with 46 human chromosomes has the same rights as adult human beings. (2) An intelligent being from Mars might have the same rights as an adult human being but not have any chromosomes at all.

Here's another thought: Suppose that a fetus had 23 chromosomes until it was 4 months old, at which time the chromosomes split to make 46. Then what? Would it follow that the embryo/fetus could be aborted during the first four months?

You must make an argument to establish a connection between physiology and personhood or rights. How might you do so?

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