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 Posted: Mon Aug 04, 2008 8:42 am
There exists a widespread controversy over human embryonic stem cell research that emanates from the techniques used in the creation and usage of stem cells. Human embryonic stem cell research is controversial because, with the present state of technology, starting a stem cell line requires the destruction of a human embryo and/or therapeutic cloning. However, recently, it has been shown in principle that adult stem cell lines can be manipulated to generate embryonic-like stem cell lines using a single-cell biopsy similar to that used in preimplantation genetic diagnosis that may allow stem cell creation without embryonic destruction.[31] It is not the entire field of stem cell research, but the specific field of human embryonic stem cell research that is at the centre of an ethical debate.
Opponents of the research argue that embryonic stem cell technologies are a slippery slope to reproductive cloning and can fundamentally devalue human life. Those in the pro-life movement argue that a human embryo is a human life and is therefore entitled to protection.
Contrarily, supporters of embryonic stem cell research argue that such research should be pursued because the resultant treatments could have significant medical potential. It is also noted that excess embryos created for in vitro fertilization could be donated with consent and used for the research.
The ensuing debate has prompted authorities around the world to seek regulatory frameworks and highlighted the fact that stem cell research represents a social and ethical challenge. ~en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/Stem_cell#Controversy_surrounding_human_embryonic_stem_cell_research
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Posted: Mon Aug 04, 2008 8:47 am
I personally think we should invest in this research for the advancement of the human race.
you know how many things we could cure with this research?
also dealing with the argument of destroying human embryos, I think that after a while of this research, we will find a definite way to use these cells without the complete destruction of the embryo.
On a Family Guy episode Peter Griffin eats 30 hamburgers and has a stroke, and a little while after he walks into a stem cell research facility and comes out perfectly cured of the paralysis of the left half of his body. he turns to the policeman standing in front of the clinic and asks him how long he was in there, the policeman says, five minutes and peter says "Why are we not funding this?"
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Posted: Mon Aug 04, 2008 11:16 am
There are ways to use stem cells that don't involve using a fetus. I'm all for using these. If we can save lives without hurting others, of course we should be funding it.
I've heard something about how aborted fetuses can be used for stem cell research too, but I could be fuzzy on the details. If you're going to throw the fetus out, you may as well use it to help solve our problems.
I haven't seen that episode of Family Guy. XD But that show does tend to make good points now and then.
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