THE ABORTION CONTROVERSY

An overview that presents a contentious topic in a clear and dispassionate light.

The introduction describes the state of abortion rights in the U.S. in the wake of the 2022 Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which rescinded Roe v. Wade, the historic 1973 case that legalized abortion. The first chapter recounts the historical context, starting from the early 19th century. Two subsequent chapters focus on risks to women and medical professionals as a result of abortion restrictions. The two final chapters present current efforts to completely ban abortion and the opposing drive to restore abortion rights. Short narratives depict and quote people who have been affected by the Dobbs ruling, showing the emotional impact and medical hazards of pregnancy complications and limited health care access. Relatedly, the book describes the “sizable segment of women” who are avoiding pregnancy “because they are fearful that Dobbs robs them of the health care…they require.” Textboxes present relevant background information, such as the story of the actual Jane Roe. Graphs, charts, and photographs break up the text. Lerose describes anti-abortion groups’ embrace of “the personhood of every fetus,” highlighting the spread of student groups. Disappointingly, the book doesn’t connect positions on abortion with various religious teachings, and some complex information, such as the possible mental health impact of abortion, is presented without sufficient context. Nevertheless, this is an accessible and timely resource.

A brief, balanced overview of a fraught and complex issue.