(July 25, 2013 at 3:56 pm)teaearlgreyhot Wrote: This argument I stumbled across today. I found it in the logic textbook I mentioned earlier. It was having me just analyze it for validity (not soundness) but I did find it somewhat compelling and it reflects my general inclinations on the abortion debate. I'm still fairly undecided on the matter but this line of reasoning is what I tend to lean towards.
All beings with a right to life are capable of desiring continued existence.
All beings capable of desiring continued existence have a concept of themselves as a continuing subject of experiences.
No human fetus has a concept of itself as a continuing subject of experiences.
Therefore, No human fetus has a right to life.
My analysis. The asterisks are left over from the "Star" analysis method of determining validity.
All B* is E
All E* is S
No F* is E*
Therefore, No F is B.
Valid.
Good argument, however defined "desire". Does this desire lean on the premise of sentience? If so then what about animals? If not then your agrument has merit.
I would be a televangelist....but I have too much of a soul.