FROM PRE-SCHOOL AIDES TO PRESIDENTS: THEMES AND SCENES OF THE ABORTION DEBATE

Abstract

In Linda Smith's monologue, My Son Has Down Syndrome, Greg expresses his opinion of abortion standing in the unique position of being both an abortion opponent and, statistically speaking, what some today would call an abortion survivor. He is a "high functioning" carrier of an extra chromosome, the discovery of which today leads ninety percent of pregnant mothers to abort. His opinion of the subject of abortion, though expressed in simple terms, carries with it the same logic, emotion, and persuasive appeal that ornaments one opinion of the debate sounded in any number of circles. Indeed, everyone from construction workers to Congressmen has a moral, medical, social, or political opinion on the topic. These themes have been debated just as vigorously in living rooms, barber shops, community centers, and cyber space as they have in the halls of Congress and the courtrooms of the United States. As Greg and his mother share their own voice on the matter, this note examines similar themes as propounded by the mighty voice of the United States Executive Branch.