The problem of abortion and the doctrine of double effect

Abstract

This article explores the doctrine of double effect (DDE), which is a principle used in moral philosophy to justify allowing a bad outcome to occur as a foreseen but not intentionally pursued consequence of an action that is intended to produce a good outcome. The author examines the use of DDE in arguments about abortion and other moral dilemmas, and argues that the distinction between direct and indirect intention is less important than the distinction between avoiding harm and providing aid. The author concludes that DDE is not a satisfactory basis for moral decision-making and that the duty not to inflict harm is generally more compelling than the duty to provide aid. – AI-generated abstract.