Abortion Quote by Hippolytus of Rome
“Women who were reputed believers began to resort to drugs for producing sterility. They also girded themselves around, so as to expel what was being conceived. For they did not wish to have a child by either slave or by any common fellow - out of concern for their family and their excessive wealth. See what a great impiety the lawless one has advanced! He teaches adultery and murder at the same time!”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: De Virginibus, Hippolytus of Rome, 4th century
Women avoided childbirth through harmful means to protect wealth and status, reflecting extreme fear of social stigma and moral corruption.
In simple terms: Women used drugs to stay childless to protect wealth and avoid stigma.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how fear can drive harmful choices.
Themes
wealth
family
social pressure
morality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- marriage decisions
- family planning
- social status concerns
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
ethics
social control
gender dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear of social judgment influence personal health decisions?
- What ethical dilemmas arise when wealth outweighs human life?
A Different Perspective
The quote reflects a specific historical context and may not generalize to modern societies.
