Roe v. Wade addresses abortion by balancing the right to privacy with which state interests?

• A. Privacy alone
• B. Women's health and potential life
• C. National security
• D. Freedom of speech

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how a woman's right to privacy in making abortion decisions is weighed against the state’s legitimate interests. In Roe v. Wade, the court recognizes a protected privacy right that allows a woman to choose an abortion, but it also identifies two important state interests the law must consider: protecting the woman’s health and protecting potential life as the fetus becomes viable. This creates a balance where the privacy right is strongest early in the pregnancy, but the state’s health and viability interests become more compelling as pregnancy progresses, allowing some regulation. National security or freedom of speech aren’t relevant to this abortion rights balance, and privacy alone doesn’t capture the role of these legitimate state interests.