Donald T DeMarco

Why I Am Pro-Life and Not Politically Correct Donald T DeMarco

The title of this book represents an extended response to two questions: "Why I am pro-life?" and "Why I am not politically correct?" By answering the first question I am more than half way toward answering the second since it is not logically possible that being pro-life can be consistent with being politically correct. There are two basic reasons why I am pro-life, though these reasons are intimately linked with each other. First, life is what distinguishes us from non-existence. It is the gift without which we could do nothing. Therefore life must be treasured for it stretches out from nothingness and opens the way to everything that is good for us. Secondly, my life is not something that I alone possess. Others have life and their lives should be equally treasured and cherished. I am grateful that I was not aborted. Consequently, I cannot approve the abortion of others. I express my gratitude for the gift of life by honoring its presence in everyone else who is living. I cannot espouse politically correctness since it is incompatible with valuing life. Moreover, its inspiration does not lie in gratitude, but in convenience. It is willing to bend to the preferences of those who are in a position of power. Therefore, it places morality on the flimsy and unreliable basis of political views that blow in the wind and grant preferences to some and not to others. Political correctness is marketed on the basis of its simplicity, immediacy, and expediency. It does away with serious thinking. This book contrasts the personal, social, and intrinsic values of life with political views that try to make life easier, but in doing so rob it of its glory. In this regard, I agree with the philosopher Baruch Spinoza: "All things excellent are as difficult as they are rare."