Well, then, I guess that precise definitions and common understanding ARE a problem area.

Perhaps that law is a useful *effort* at definition, though.

For public "policy", I guess I am leaning towards the "property" aspect of a foetus, when I will allow a mother to kill one of *her* own. Obviously, possession is deeply ingrained into some of our languages/grammars. That "criatura" in the womb (Frank introduced this Spanish word at TT Evo) may be viewed as common social property, but then it follows that society in general should take over total responsibility of/for family affairs even more so than now. (Inspector Clueseau in the bedroom? Absurd?)

OTOH, in law/custom of some (at least) cultures, "property" is recognised as a viable concept, too. Higher animals in general seem to be capable of holding that "property" concept.