GCSE Philosophy and Ethics Practice Exam

Under what circumstance do some Catholic countries, such as Ireland, allow abortion?

1. In cases of financial hardship.

2. To save the mother's life.

3. If the pregnancy was unplanned.

4. For gender selection.

The correct answer is: To save the mother's life.

The allowance of abortion in some Catholic countries, such as Ireland, under certain circumstances is primarily linked to the need to protect the mother's life. This principle is rooted in the belief that safeguarding the life and health of the mother is a moral priority, especially in situations where continuing the pregnancy poses a serious risk to her health or well-being. This perspective reflects the broader ethical stance within Catholicism that acknowledges the sanctity of life while also recognizing the potential conflict that can arise between the mother's life and that of the fetus. The emphasis on preserving the mother’s life aligns with teachings that prioritize the immediate well-being of individuals in life-threatening situations. In contrast, financial hardship, unplanned pregnancies, and gender selection do not meet the criteria used in these countries for permitting abortion. Financial concerns are seen as insufficient grounds for terminating a pregnancy within Catholic doctrine. Similarly, the moral implications surrounding the intention behind an abortion for reasons like unplanned pregnancies or gender selection diverge from the ethical framework that prioritizes the protection of life. Thus, the correct circumstance under which abortion might be permitted in some Catholic countries is specifically tied to scenarios where the mother's life is at risk.