The number of abortions carried out in England and Wales stands at around 185,000 per year. The abortion rate shows no signs of decreasing - to the contrary, quarterly figures demonstrate a systematic increase in the number of women terminating pregnancies. It is arguably the case that abortion is now a fact of life in British society. Is it right to think of abortion as just like any other operation that can be guided by the principle of patient autonomy? Or are there specific issues to consider - given the matter at hand is whether a new life should be born? This controversial issue is discussed by contributors from both sides of the debate. The Institute of Idea's mission is to expand the boundaries of public debate through organizing conferences, discussions and salons, and publishing written conversations and exchanges in a hope to play a part in shaking up a culture that seems to shy away more and more from confrontation and the clash of ideas.