The Anti-Abortion Campaign in England, 1966-1989

This book explores the history of the anti-abortion campaign in England from 1966 to 1989, focusing on the tactics used by campaigners to overturn the 1967 Abortion Act. It examines the influence of religion, representations of women, and the fetus's status, and the varied attitudes towards abortion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the rich history of the anti-abortion campaign in England, specifically spanning the period from 1966 to 1989. During this pivotal era, the campaign witnessed its peak intensity, marking the twentieth century's most significant era of anti-abortion activism. The book meticulously explores the strategies employed by campaigners to challenge the 1967 Abortion Act, a pivotal legal milestone that legalized abortion in the United Kingdom. Central to the narrative are the profound influences of religion on attitudes towards sexuality and pregnancy, the multifaceted representations of women and the female body, and the diverse and often contentious perspectives held by both anti-abortion and pro-choice advocates regarding the status of the fetus during the 1966-1989 period.

The book sheds light on the intricate interplay between religious beliefs, societal norms, and political ideologies, shaping the contentious debate surrounding abortion. It examines how religious institutions, both Protestant and Catholic, played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing political decisions. The authors analyze the ways in which religious teachings and moral values influenced the attitudes of individuals and organizations, contributing to the polarization of the abortion issue.

Furthermore, the book explores the various representations of women and the female body in popular culture, media, and literature during the 1966-1989 period. It examines how these representations shaped public perception and influenced attitudes towards abortion. The authors analyze how women were portrayed as victims, heroes, or villains, and how these portrayals impacted the broader debate surrounding reproductive rights.

The book also delves into the complex and often deeply contested attitudes towards the status of the fetus articulated by both anti-abortion and pro-choice advocates during this period. It examines the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by individuals and organizations, as well as the scientific and medical arguments presented by both sides. The authors explore the historical and social contexts that shaped these attitudes, and how they evolved over time.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the anti-abortion campaign in England, spanning the period from 1966 to 1989. It sheds light on the complex interplay between religion, sexuality, gender, and the status of the fetus, and offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate surrounding reproductive rights. The book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and policymakers alike, as it provides a rich historical context for understanding the contemporary challenges and complexities associated with abortion.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367346843