A lot of times in discussions with abortion supporters, they use the word “fetus.” Though I can’t judge their intentions, I believe the reason for using the word fetus as opposed to “baby,” “child,” or “human” is to dehumanize a pre-born human. Honestly, the word fetus doesn’t sound adorable at all. Whenever we think of a fetus, we think of just a “blob of cells,” but whenever we think of a baby, we think of a very “adorable young child.” Are abortion advocates, however, really aware of what the term fetus means? Let’s take a look.
First, from just a cursory reading in a dictionary, you’ll find that the word fetus has a different meaning than what you might have originally thought. According to Merriam-Webster, a fetus is a developing human from usually two months after conception to birth. What is interesting is that this definition, and many others, includes the word human. So, whenever an abortion advocate is saying, “A fetus shouldn’t have rights,” he or she is unknowingly humanizing the pre-born child, given that the word fetus means developing human.
Additionally, let’s look at the origin of the word. It comes from Latin, in the fourth declension as the word, just as in English, fetus. A fetus in Latin is defined as offspring and even children of a parent.
Therefore, it’s an etymological mistake to believe that using the word fetus actually dehumanizes a pre-born human. Apart from scientific evidence, this is just another way of demonstrating that the pre-born are indeed human beings. It’s definitely a shame that bigotry is still alive and well against pre-born humans. It’s important to show their humanness and prove that they are human beings so that one day all humans may be treated equally.
Jacob is a sophomore studying linguistics at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Do you think the word fetus is used as a tool to dehumanize the pre-born? Let Jacob know by tweeting him @JacobHoback.
