Stem Cell Research

Research Paper # 99324

Biology > Molecular and Cell
Ethics
Hot Topics > Stem Cell Research

Stem Cell Research

This paper deals with the controversial issue of stem cell research.

1,393 words () | 6 sources | MLA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that the issue of stem cell research has to do with a conflict between the need for scientific research on the one hand, and the moral issues associated with the sanctity of human life on the other hand. The writer discusses that taking human life is certainly reprehensible to most people's moral code, but there is also the issue of all the good that could come out of stem cell research, in terms of alleviating human suffering. The writer points out that the issue of funding stem cell research in the U.S.A. remains steeped in controversy and subject to severe restrictions. The writer concludes that if it continues and does one day yield almost miraculous cures, this might have an extremely positive impact on the US economy - but it might also yield even more complex moral issues, as to who gets to reap its benefits, and who does not.

From the Paper:

"There is clearly a strong case to be made for this point of view. Harvesting stem cells implies that the embryo is denied the chance of growing into a human being, so it is clearly not to be taken lightly. On the other hand, proponents of stem cell research argue that in normal life, human eggs are frequently fertilized but fail to implant in the woman's uterus. Thus, a fertilized egg should not be seen as a human life, but only as potential human life - without the same rights and privileges of an actual human being. Apart from this theoretical point, proponents of stem cell research point out that in practice, the embryos utilized never had any hope of growing and being born anyway."

Sample of Sources Used:

AAAS (American Association for the Advancement of Science). (2004, August). AAAS policy brief: Stem cell research. Retrieved August 31, 2006, from http://www.aaas.org/spp/cstc/briefs/stemcells/index.shtml
Allison, H. E. (2004). Kant's transcendental idealism: An interpretation and defense. New Haven and London: Yale University Press.
CNN.com. (2004, June 10) First Lady: Stem-cell research ethical balancing act. Retrieved August 31, 2006, from http://www.cnn.com/2004/HEALTH/06/09/firstlady.stemcell/
Gorin, S. (1997). Universal health care coverage in the United States: Barriers, prospects, and implications. Health and Social Work, 22(3), 223-230.
NIH. (2005a). Research ethics and stem cells. Retrieved August 31, 2006, from http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/ethics.asp