Roe v. Wade

Questions for Further Study

• 1. Roe v. Wade and Brown v. Board of Education, a 1954 ruling that ended racial segregation in public schools, are considered two of the Supreme Court's most significant landmark cases of the twentieth century. Compare and contrast the social impact of each. Which case do you think has had more importance in American society?
• 2. For centuries, philosophers and theologians have debated the question of when human life begins. The Supreme Court has examined the question of when human life is constitutionally protected on numerous occasions. In the modern era, scientific advancements have pushed the boundaries regarding what is considered a viable fetus. Consider the perspectives from each of these realms of knowledge. When, in your view, does human life begin?
• 3. The Supreme Court is integral to the constitutional system of checks and balances instituted in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the U.S. government. Examine Roe v. Wade in the context of this system and discuss the positions of each of the three branches of government on the abortion issue both before the decision and since the decision was handed down.