Death and life in the abortion debate: an analysis based on the public hearing on ADPF 442

Abstract Starting from the premise that agenda on reproductive rights is home to political disputes in field of sexuality and reproduction, this article reviews debate held at public hearing Argument Noncompliance with a Fundamental Precept (Arguição de Descumprimento Preceito Fundamental, ADPF) # 442 August 2018. The lawsuit proposes decriminalization abortion induced by pregnant woman herself or her consent until 12th week gestation. At convened Supreme Court, 50 amicus curiae presentations were held, catalyzing current arguments raised Brazil. content (characters, places, images, audios, texts, video) taken as empirical material for research. Considering centrality defense life/combating death argument, both speeches against ADPF, we examine different frameworks used actors scene when debating issue terms clash between life. More than polysemy, it makes explicit hierarchies regarding reproduction women’s lives.