Despite the effects of a pro-life or pro-choice world, the polarization of this topic results in heavy judgement and gross stigmas for anyone who shows a strong stance. I would argue that all women are affected by the polarization of abortion. Those who are pro-life are often thought of extremists who care little for a mother or women’s rights in general, while pro-choice advocates are often given the name of “baby killer” as seen in this article. The people with no visible opinion are also attacked for their lack of action because the topic really has a “you’re with me or you’re against me” attitude. These stigmas result in shame from some women, or even the refusal to discuss the topic for others. I think the latter is the more dangerous of the two. As I’ve said in many posts, there is nothing more dangerous to a society than ignorance and without talking about the subject and sharing stories and experiences, how can the society be anything but ignorant?
I don’t believe that reducing the polarization of this topic is far off. As I have shown in former posts, many people on opposing sides share opinions, and very few believe in the extremes (abortion should be illegal in all cases or legal up to birth). What I see as a solution is not that all people believe that abortion is either ok, or not ok, but that all of society is educated and recognizes that it is not a black and white topic. If people would just continue the conversation on their beliefs and the root of them, I think this topic would cool down, and we would all be better off. So next time you’re in a situation that calls for your opinion, don’t back down. Here is a great link to help you out with these conversations and ensure everyone feels safe and respected.
The Galia 
March 30, 2017 at 5:36 pm
I think, as with almost all societal issues, ignorance is the source of all trouble and you are very right about that. However, sometimes I wonder if certain issues could ever be resolved even if ignorance was somehow eradicated–and one of these issues is abortion. You were right when you said that people of opposing sides most likely share many of the same opinions, but I also believe it’s really nobody’s business. Abortion has been settled in court and the ability to choose is a right, and rights are only supposed to be defended not hindered. Your optimism for resolution is refreshing but I think abortion will be polarized whether it is legal or not and whether ignorance on the topic exists or not.
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April 3, 2017 at 8:03 pm
Yeah I do get what you’re saying, I just think education and discussion can only help. And while i agree that it is something that has been settled in court, because of how others interpret the situation, they believe it goes beyond that.
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March 30, 2017 at 9:34 pm
I wanted to really applaud you in this post for the insightful links you connected to the argument. Reading both links about how polarization on the topic of abortion, truly hurts women brought a new perspective to the challenge. This made me think about my role in contributing to the issue. I strongly identify as Pro-Choice and do admit that when I am discussing the topic of abortion with someone who is strongly Pro-Life I tend to get quite heated in discussion. Figuring out how to have productive conversations with both sides together is very challenging and something I know I could work on. The link you left regarding how actually find the way to have open conversations is really insightful and I will definitely keep note of it.
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April 3, 2017 at 8:04 pm
I agree and definitely share the problem of getting to intense in conversation. I think its important to just keep in mind that heated argument wont be productive! I’m glad you enjoyed this post!
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