Why Human Cloning is Not the Answer

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the arguments for and against cloning, showing why cloning poses a significant moral dilemma as well as health risks. The writer explains that cloning involves many processes that filter genetic material, and this frequently causes unknown genetic defects in the individual Many claim that cloning allows parents, loved ones and society in general a second chance after a special individual is lost. The paper argues that this dehumanizes the role of a clone, and that many would be tempted to attempt to create another clone at the expense of the current one, if such a clone were to develop a genetic weakness. Moreover, creating a child that has to live up to the expectations of his or her original model is a burden that no one should have. The paper concludes that cloning ultimately undermines the dignity of life.

From the Paper:

"Another argument that many supporters claim is that with the ability to clone individuals we can clone those who have benefited our society the most such as political, scientific, musical or artistic leaders in the hope that they can make even greater contributions to their fields. The problem with this logic is that even if it were possible to clone such individuals, we create a prescript of how they should lead their lives. Our expectations of their existence would focus in on their original's contributions to society. Since we cannot replicate the complicated set of circumstances for which any individual grew up and gained motivation to progress or advance their lives, it is impossible to demand a clone to produce the same if not more than their predecessor."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "The pros and cons of human reproductive cloning." Cloning. May-June 2005. The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. 4 Mar. 2006 <http://www.abpischools.org.uk/resources/poster-series/cloning/proscons.asp>.
• Kass, Leon R. Human Cloning and Human Dignity. New York: Public Affairs, 2002.

More papers on Why Human Cloning is Not the Answer:

• Argumentative Essay # 50470 : "Why Human Cloning Is a Good Idea"
• Argumentative Essay # 3713 : "Why Prohibition is Not the Answer"
• Analytical Essay # 2236 : "Analysis of the Permissibility of Human Cloning"

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