Well most fertilized zygotes don't result in a successful pregnancy. Most either don't implant or miscarry during the first trimester. So the argument for conception goes out the window there.
As to consciousness. This is more difficult. The brain and nervous system might be developed around 26 weeks (I don't know, I'm trusting you on this) I'm not sure if the being is sentient. Is consciousness given or is it learned? With no framework to process the sensations being received is the fetus really experiencing things the way we would?
I don't endorse abortions of fetuses that are viable outside the womb but the idea of sentience and consciousness is an interesting one.
As to consciousness. This is more difficult. The brain and nervous system might be developed around 26 weeks (I don't know, I'm trusting you on this) I'm not sure if the being is sentient. Is consciousness given or is it learned? With no framework to process the sensations being received is the fetus really experiencing things the way we would?
I don't endorse abortions of fetuses that are viable outside the womb but the idea of sentience and consciousness is an interesting one.
