Does a fetus feel pain? Hearing tries to sort out differing views

[Ave Maria]

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0506305.htm

What is your opinion? Does the fetus feel pain? What studies have you read that indicate this is so? (Note: You don't need studies to back up your opinion if you don't want to post them or don't have them.)

 

[The thinker]

I would expect that they don't, at that stage they are just like little machines growing into what will soon be a human. I think its like saying does an ant feel pain? They are just little machines doing what they have to for the colony to survive I don't think they have feelings or care about what they are doing they just do it ... like a car ... kinda

I suppose its like that for a fetus because they have not become fully "operational" humans yet. But I have no proof its just what I assume, havn't really thought about it before.

 

[Ave Maria]

Did you know that a fetus can feel pain by 8 weeks? Source
Also, from what I understand, the vast majority of abortions occur after the 8th week of pregnancy but I am not certain.

 

[Chenoa]

Also, from what I understand, the vast majority of abortions occur after the 8th week of pregnancy but I am not certain.

I would have to assume so, for you must take into account that it takes maybe a month or a little longer for the woman to realize she is pregnant and have it confirmed, then maybe another month to decide and set up an appt.

Is it relevant if they feel pain? Seeing that a fetus cannot understand what pain is...? I still believe it is murder, regardless.


Chenoa

 

[indra_fanatic]

Can a kitten feel pain? Can a retarded person feel pain? Can a newborn feel pain?

Why are we discussing something so obvious?

 

[fuzzyh]

A fetus feels pain, just like anyone else feels pain. Perhaps some of you might be aware of Silent Scream. This movie was produced I believe by a doctor who perform abortions and was trying to provide evidence for abortions.

www.silentscream.org