The Silent Scream

File:The Silent Scream (1984).ogg The Silent Scream is a controversial anti-abortion film released in 1984, directed by Jack Duane Dabner and narrated by Bernard Nathanson, an obstetrician, ultrasound pioneer, and former abortion provider who became a prominent figure in the pro-life movement. The film claims to show the ultrasound footage of a 12-week-old fetus being aborted, with Nathanson describing the fetus as appearing to be struggling to avoid the abortionist's instruments and emitting a silent scream, hence the title.

Content and Claims

The film begins with an introduction by Nathanson, where he presents his credentials and his conversion from an abortion provider to an anti-abortion advocate. He then proceeds to narrate the ultrasound footage, which he claims was a live abortion procedure on a 12-week-old fetus. Nathanson interprets the movements seen in the ultrasound as the fetus experiencing pain and attempting to escape the abortion instruments. He uses this interpretation to argue against the morality and ethics of abortion.

Reception and Criticism

The Silent Scream received widespread attention upon its release, with strong reactions from both sides of the abortion debate. Supporters of the pro-life movement hailed it as compelling evidence of the humanity of the fetus and the cruelty of abortion. It was endorsed by several high-profile figures within the movement and used extensively as a tool for anti-abortion campaigning.

However, the film was also subject to significant criticism from the medical and scientific community, who disputed Nathanson's interpretations of the ultrasound footage. Critics argued that the movements observed were normal reflexes of a fetus at that stage of development and did not indicate pain or consciousness. The American Medical Association issued a statement refuting the claims made in the film, and many experts in fetal development and neurobiology have stated that the nervous system of a 12-week-old fetus is not sufficiently developed to experience pain.

Impact

Despite the controversy and criticism, The Silent Scream had a significant impact on the anti-abortion movement, providing it with a powerful visual tool to support its arguments. It has been credited with influencing public opinion on abortion and contributing to the passage of restrictive abortion laws in various jurisdictions. The film remains a subject of debate and is used in educational and campaigning materials by pro-life organizations.

See Also

• Abortion debate
• Pro-life movement
• Ultrasound
• Bernard Nathanson