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An important feature of the argument from potential is that it does not apply to at least some seriously damaged or abnormal embryos and fetuses. If the embryo/fetus is abnormal in such a way that it will never develop into a person, then it does not have the potential that the argument assumes. In those cases, the argument cannot be used to condemn abortion.

(This does not mean, of course, that there cannot be other reasons to condemn it. But if you rely entirely on the argument from potential, all embryos are not covered.)