peter-singer-abortion-critique-pdf
By Joshua N. Ayozie
The ethics of abortion continue to generate serious debate across philosophy, religion, law, and public health. One of the most influential voices in this discussion is Peter Singer, whose utilitarian approach to abortion is based on his understanding of personhood and moral status. Singer argues that a fetus does not possess the qualities that define a “person,” such as self-awareness, rationality, and the ability to hold preferences, and therefore may not have the same moral status as a fully developed human being.
This paper examines Singer’s position from an African (Igbo) legal and ethical perspective. Drawing from Igbo jurisprudence and traditional philosophy, the study explores how African thought understands personhood, human life, morality, and communal responsibility. The paper focuses on three important foundations of Igbo jurisprudence: Mmuo na Mmadu (the hierarchy of beings and personhood), Odinala na Omenala (the customs and traditions of the people), and Ako na Uche (the role of conscience and reason).
Using these principles, the authors argue that Singer’s understanding of personhood is too narrow and does not fully reflect the moral, cultural, and communal dimensions of human life found in African thought. The paper also highlights the importance of cultural perspectives in shaping fair and inclusive bioethical discussions and public health policies.
Overall, this work presents an African (Igbo) dialogue with Peter Singer’s utilitarian ethics on abortion while contributing to broader global conversations on bioethics, human dignity, and personhood.
