Overview
This module introduces Don Marquis's philosophical argument for the moral impermissibility of abortion, positioning it as a compelling counterpoint to Thomson's defense of abortion rights discussed in part one.
Quiz Structure
The assessment consists of three questions with a total time limit of three minutes (one minute per question). Two questions use "select all that apply" format, while one is true/false.
| Question | Format | Topic |
|---|
| 1 | Select all that apply | Who Marquis's concept of "loss of valuable future" applies to |
| 2 | Select all that apply | What Marquis's argument implies is wrong to kill (from list of six items) |
| 3 | True/False | How the personhood debate relates to Marquis's argument |
Question 1: Loss of Valuable Future
- Focuses on Marquis's central concept regarding valuable futures
- Asks which entities this concept applies to
- Answer can be gleaned from the reading
- Will be emphasized in the second video presentation
- Key to understanding Marquis's core argument
Question 2: Implications of Marquis's Argument
- Presents six potential entities or scenarios
- Requires selecting all items Marquis's logic suggests are wrong to kill
- Answer derivable from reading but heavily explained in reflections video
- Tests understanding of how Marquis's principles extend beyond abortion
Question 3: Personhood and Marquis's Framework
- Examines how fetal personhood debate maps onto Marquis's argument
- Contrasts with Thomson's approach, which bypassed personhood question
- Explores whether Marquis relies on fetal moral status
- Details provided in upcoming reflections video
Context and Significance
- Marquis's essay is considered the second most influential work on abortion ethics
- Thomson's essay (module 8, part one) remains the most influential pro-choice argument
- Marquis offers the most compelling anti-abortion argument in contemporary philosophy
- Both essays represent intellectual challenges worth engaging seriously