The Human Life Review

HumanLifeReview

The Human Life Review is a quarterly journal dedicated to the discussion and analysis of abortion, euthanasia, and other bioethics topics from a pro-life perspective. Founded in 1975 by James P. McFadden, the publication aims to provide intellectual support to the pro-life movement by publishing essays, legal and medical analysis, and book reviews that explore the moral, philosophical, and legal underpinnings of the pro-life position.

History

The inception of The Human Life Review was motivated by the landmark United States Supreme Court decision Roe v. Wade in 1973, which legalized abortion nationwide. McFadden, an ardent pro-life advocate and then-editor of National Review, saw the need for a specialized publication that could offer in-depth analysis and critique of abortion and related issues from a pro-life standpoint. Since its first issue, the journal has expanded its focus to include topics such as assisted suicide, stem cell research, and the implications of advances in biotechnology on human dignity and rights.

Content and Impact

The journal is known for its rigorous scholarship and has featured contributions from notable intellectuals, legal scholars, and commentators. Articles often engage with contemporary debates, providing historical context, legal critique, and ethical reflection. The Human Life Review has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual discourse around life issues, influencing policymakers, scholars, and activists within the pro-life community.

Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of The Human Life Review is firmly pro-life, advocating for the protection of human life from conception to natural death. The journal supports legal and cultural efforts to combat abortion, euthanasia, and other practices it views as antithetical to the dignity of human life. It also promotes the adoption of policies that provide support to pregnant women, the disabled, and the elderly.

Reception

The Human Life Review has been praised within the pro-life community for its intellectual rigor and comprehensive coverage of life issues. However, it has also faced criticism from pro-choice advocates who argue that the journal's stance on abortion and other topics is overly restrictive and fails to consider the complexities of individual choice and autonomy.

Publication Details

The journal is published on a quarterly basis and is available both in print and online. Each issue typically includes a mix of original articles, book reviews, and sometimes, transcripts of relevant legal or legislative proceedings.

See Also

• Pro-life movement
• Bioethics
• Roe v. Wade
• Euthanasia
• Stem cell research