In His Reply, Christopher Tollefsen Discusses What He Takes to Be

question 13

Essay

In his reply, Christopher Tollefsen discusses what he takes to be the similarity between human fetuses and us. He affirms:
…there is a way in which human fetuses are vastly more like us than any other creature of whose existence we are directly aware. Human fetuses - if they do not die, or are not otherwise impaired - will grow and develop naturally to the point of being able to exercise exactly the characteristics that impress Nobis (and me) so much. No other being of whose existence we are directly aware will ever do that
In your essay, consider, "What traits make something like us?" What do you think is morally relevant in determining whether or not something is like a human person? Does your account challenge Tollefsen's defense of human fetuses being similar to us?

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Definitions:

Compression

To exert force against, press.

Partial-Thickness Burn

A Partial-Thickness Burn is a type of burn affecting both the epidermis and certain parts of the dermis, causing pain, swelling, and blistering.

Second-Degree Burn

A type of burn that affects both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the underlying layer of skin (dermis), characterized by redness, swelling, and blistering.

Superficial Burn

A type of injury to the skin characterized by damage only to the outer layer, often resulting in pain and redness.