The phrase “My body, my choice” has become a popular slogan in today’s world. It emphasizes a person’s absolute right to make decisions about their own body. But can we truly make any decision we want without considering its consequences? Does freedom have no limits?
Absolute Individualism: Freedom or Self-Centeredness?
This mindset is rooted in absolute individualism—the belief that a person is completely independent and no external force should restrict their choices. According to this view:
- Each individual has complete ownership of their body and can make any decision regarding it.
- Society, religion, and ethics should have no role in limiting personal choices because these decisions affect only the individual.
- Personal will takes precedence over any other value, even if it leads to harm.
But is this perspective realistic?
Why Absolute Individualism is Problematic:
- Ignoring responsibilities: No one exists in isolation. Our choices inevitably impact those around us.
- Clashing with moral and religious values: In many belief systems, the body is viewed as a divine trust, not merely personal property to be used however one pleases.
- The social consequences of individual choices: If we accept total personal autonomy, what prevents actions that harm others or weaken the moral fabric of society?
Clothing: Personal Choice or Social Responsibility
One of the key areas where this slogan is used is clothing. Some argue that no one should interfere with how people choose to dress, claiming it is purely a personal matter. But this perspective overlooks the broader social impact of clothing.
- Clothing is not just an individual choice; it influences society’s moral and cultural environment.
- Modest attire contributes to both self-respect and a healthier social atmosphere.
- Freedom in clothing should not justify the normalization of immodesty or the erosion of social values.
Thus, clothing is more than a private decision—it is intertwined with social responsibility.
Abortion: A Woman’s Choice or a Baby’s Right to Life
Another issue tied to the “my body, my choice” argument is abortion. Many claim that since the fetus is inside a woman’s body, she has the right to decide whether to continue or terminate the pregnancy. However, does this argument hold up to ethical scrutiny?
- The fetus is a living being. Can personal freedom override another human’s right to life?
- In religious teachings, life is sacred, and taking it without justification is a grave wrongdoing.
- If a woman has the right to choose pregnancy, does she not also have the responsibility to protect the life she has created?
Abortion is not merely a personal choice; it involves complex moral, legal, and ethical considerations.
Gender Change, Drug Use, and Suicide: Do We Own Our Bodies Completely?
If people truly have absolute ownership over their bodies, then this logic should extend to:
- Changing their gender at will, even without any medical necessity.
- Using harmful substances, regardless of the consequences.
- Ending their own lives whenever they choose, since “it’s their life.”
But these actions raise serious concerns:
- Gender transition is justifiable only in rare medical cases, but otherwise, it can be seen as interference with the natural human identity.
- Drug addiction does not affect only the user—it destroys families and disrupts society.
- Suicide is condemned in both religious and ethical systems, as life is a gift that must be protected.
Can personal freedom be an excuse for self-destruction or harming others?
Conclusion: Freedom Requires Responsibility
While human beings have free will, this does not mean that every choice is justified. Freedom without responsibility leads to chaos and destruction.
If we fully embrace absolute individualism, then no standard remains to prevent harmful and reckless behaviors. But if we acknowledge that our bodies are a trust, not just personal property, then we recognize that freedom must come with accountability.