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Umbilical CordThe debate whether or not to use embryos in stem cell research is a continuation of the argument about whether or not the embryo has any rights. In fact, some people argue that the embryo is not really a person.
People who argue for embryonic rights, often called "Right-to Lifers," say that life starts at conception. Their opponents are less concerned with identifying when life begins, insisting that existing life supersedes developing life.
The controversy over stem cell research came to the fore when researchers said they believed they had a way to develop new and corrective tissues, particularly nerves, using embryos. -
The arguments for the research include, but are not limited to, that embryonic life, while important, is not equivalent to existing life. This is termed the "Human Potential Argument." Also it is argued that in some cases the embryo will be destroyed anyway, so there is no problem. Additionally, it is argued that embryo stem cells are superior to adult stem cells. This is called the "Superiority" argument.
Those against the research claim that life starts at conception and using embryos is equivalent to murder. They believe researchers are taking an easy road rather than examining all possibilities and think the potential of the research is being overstated.
There is a middle-of-road position that states that if an embryo is damaged, it can be used. -
Human EmbryoAs is typical of controversial topics, they rarely stay focused. Proponents are not happy to get only some embryos for research and want to expand the definition of what is a "damaged embryo."
Conversely, those who are extremely conservative on the issue do not agree that a damaged embryo can be used. -
Woman in WheelchairSo far there have been no agreement between the two sides. The Bush administration has battled the overt use of embryos other than specially developed lines, and has put strict limits on research. -
Kaposi's Sarcoma From HIV AidsThe belief that an all-out use of embryos is going to solve problems with paralysis, genetic diseases and AIDS-HIV, is premature. Stem sell research at this time only suggests possible success. With limits to scientific research, we may not know all the benefits of embryonic stem cells for a long time. - There is already an alternative. Researchers in Germany have developed bone and muscle tissue from male testicles. These stem cells are superior to embryos since there are no problems with cell rejection.
- There is no doubt that the human body offers many solutions to medical problems. However, society should be cautious when making major decisions that include cutting off some aspect of human development, especially when new procedures and techniques are becoming available.
