Analysis of Abortion: The Clash of Absolutes Essay Example

Laurence H. Tribe, the Carl M. Loeb University Professor and Professor of Constitutional Law at Harvard, has taught at its Law School since 1968 and was voted the best professor by the graduating class of 2000. Additionally, he makes appearances on television and public radio. He published Abortion: The Clash of Absolutes in 1990. The categories of which include family law, health care, constitutional law, discrimination & civil rights. Furthermore, the sub-categories include gender and secuality, and reproduction. Tribe argues the controversy around the two "absolutes": the fetus's right to life and the women's right to regulate her body. 

The academic novel includes an evident theme: how will the severe issues be solved concerning birth, death, and human choice generated by abortion. Specifically, when the opposition does not see a shared ground? The controversy over abortion in the United States today involves all Americans in the complexities of sexuality and power, historical change, politics, medical advancements, and competing for social values. In this academic writing, critical constitutional authorities demonstrate how the country has handled these matters and then propose a new method that mirrors the genuine beliefs of both sides. In addition, it includes a discussion of present and past court decisions. Such as the Supreme Court's momentous decision on the planned parent-child relationship vs. Casey in June 1992 and Roe v. Wade. 

Although Tribe does bring about opposing points of view throughout his work. Tribe includes anti-abortion representatives' arguments, such as Judge Boke. Boke argued that the right to privacy is not declared anywhere in the Constitution; abortion and a woman's right to her body are not explicitly noted in the Constitution. However, Tribe considers this logic as insufficient. Furthermore, suppose the right to privacy and the right to physical control is not firmly established as constitutional principles. In that case, the government could lawfully and constitutionally command abortion for socially desirable goals. 

However, Tribe mentions a very compelling argument that stood out to me, in which he states: “There is nothing more devastating than life without freedom. A life in which a person is forced to be a mother or a father is just that. Rape is one of the most profound forms of denial of freedom, and forcing a woman to give birth to her rapist's child is an assault on her humanity. How different is it from forcing her to continue with a pregnancy and become a mother just because her use of contraceptive methods by chance failed?” I fully understand and agree with Tribes point of view. It is a compelling argument that many don't consider. How can we knowingly deny those of their constitutional right of Freedom? Furthermore, it sparks the question, "what kind of life would an unwanted child receive in this day and age?" We must also consider the effect on the parents; a child carries a life-changing impact. It brings about a life of responsibility and obligations; how can we deny those their constitutional right of Freedom. Even if the parents don't acknowledge their duty, a child produces a life of devotion that someone will endure. 

Though Lawrence H. Tribe wrote Abortion: The Clash of Absolutes in 1990, the presented issues surrounding abortion are nonetheless relevant today. Tribe revolves around the question of abortion from all sides to provide notable and unbiased statements and information. Tribe negates to criticize either side but is committed to showing how and why these absolutes clash. I particularly admire Tribes' acknowledgments of abortion controversy outside the United States. It is evident that the disputes on abortion are omnipresent. Tribe dedicates periods of focus towards other cultures to see how they have dealt with this universal debate. Furthermore, Tribe investigates diverse cultures' views and perspectives for handling such matters and the evolution of such throughout American history.

Overall, this academic piece offers background and the legal history of abortion. Tribe presents a title and introduction that proposes a neutral and impartial perspective on the subject. While he does offer a sufficient amount of pro-life argument support, it is clear that Tribe emerges as a pro-choice supporter. I was rather fond of a particular argument Tribe presents. Tribe's suggestion to bridge the gap between supporters of pro-life and pro-choice beliefs is to reduce the number of women who wish to have abortions by making motherhood less of a financial and career burden as it currently is for American women.

In conclusion, my interest in this academic writing developed as it continued; Tribe contributes historical background, technical terms, debates, outside sources, cases, statistics, etc. The novel is well written, and while there are many instances of legal terminology, the majority of readers would deem it primarily understandable. I would recommend it to those interested in law, political science, history, and social issues. Whether the reader is pro-choice or pro-life, the novel depicts both sides and covers well-known topics while highlighting significant and appropriate cases. While the coverage may seem outdated, the issues described are predominantly present today and are still as relevant as much if not more so now. Tribe offers a fair hearing on all arguments and aspects while remaining respectful to both parties.