Despite a flawed analysis of the roots of women's oppression, In Abortion—A History by Mary Fissell widens the discussion around decriminalization
By Pauline Brady, Socialist Worker
Wednesday 07 January 2026
In Abortion—A History, Mary Fissell lays out a vast history of abortion across the world. She goes right back to ancient Greece, when abortion was as common as taking painkillers is now.
It is clear the perception of abortion has been significantly influenced by state-led women’s oppression and by religion, rather than the needs of pregnant people.
The book draws on transcripts and records that have survived for thousands of years. It is a great historical resource into how abortion has been weaponised to control the lives of women.