We Asked, You Answered: The “Big Government” Objection

We asked our followers on social media:

You’re getting a drink with a newish friend. A politician in your state recently proposed a heartbeat bill, and your friend mentions it. He says “I can’t believe people think it’s a good idea to let the government interfere in our lives like this.” How do you respond?

Here are a few of the top replies, in no particular order.

Reming M.: “I can’t believe we have to make laws so people don’t kill their offspring. Should be common sense.”

Dermot K.: “Why not though? Is it not important for government to protect the vulnerable from those who might aim to harm them? Laws are enacted to protect us against many forms of injustice. Should the law not protect the preborn from being intentionally killed?”

Julianne W.: “Does any government have the authority to create two classes of human being, one with human rights and one without?”

Royal Blue Raptor: “Whose lives? The babies with the beating hearts? They can’t speak up or defend themselves, so someone needs to ‘interfere’ on their behalf.”

Crystal K.: “Am I correct in hearing you say, then, that children like [my adopted daughter with many disabilities] would be better off if government allowed their mothers to kill them before people like me can adopt them?”

Make Abortion History: “I can understand where you’re coming from – but I think the issue is more complex than mere interference. Considering there’s a living human child at stake , it definitely becomes a bigger issue. For instance, I would hope you’d report your neighbors for child abuse, right?”

Leticia V.: “I share how abortion destroyed the lives of the women I work with in my pregnancy center.”

Jarred R.: “I’m a Libertarian. I believe the only legitimate role of government is to protect individual rights. When two human rights conflict in a head to head, and no compromise or workaround can be found, then the rights (not the persons) must be ranked and addressed in turn.”

Kami B.: “I think it’s wonderful that the government is taking steps to protect the most vulnerable members of the human species. The government already controls people’s bodies anyway, like making it illegal to forgo seatbelts for example. So a heartbeat bill sounds like an excellent way to ensure that all human beings have their inherent rights respected.”

Victor S.: “‘I understand why you might be against certain forms of government intervention. I know I am, too. Personally, though, I think there are certain times where government intervention is necessary, especially if it involves the protection of others. What are your thoughts on that?’ Always be open for discussion, no matter their viewpoints. Especially if you can have a calm and rational discussion over a drink!”

Alicia L.: “The government always interferes when it comes to our decisions ending the lives of another person. This isn’t new but consistent.”