Should it matter? A study released in 1999 (it’s new to me!) shows a strong statistical connection between the Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade and the substantial drop in crime during the 1990s. Conclusion? That unwanted children – the ones whose poor nurture makes them more likely to commit crime – were not born as often after legalized abortion. As much as half the drop in crime during the 1990s can be attributed the effects of Roe v. Wade.
Here’s a question, though. Assuming this study is correct – one of the authors offers a very open and honest assessment – then legalized abortion might mean a higher quality of life for the rest of us. But in deciding if abortion should be legal (the ongoing political debate), should the results of this study matter?
My guess is that pro-life folks don’t give two gerbil poops about crime rates. And pro-choicers don’t feel that using external data is necessary to buttress a right to private health decisions. It’s a shame, really. Politicians infrequently have tools that actually accomplish their policy goals. Too bad it’s taboo to debate this one.
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You can read more on this issue at the Freakonomics blog.
http://www.freakonomics.com/2005/05/abortion-and-crime-who-should-you.html
Let's try that with a real link
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