(Embryonic) stem cell research is still highly controversial even if confronted with the vast of chances this new technology might bring to mankind. People with strong ethnic and/or religious beliefs struggle with the idea of having the embryos "killed" in order to produce the valuable stem cells.
This paper will focus on the conflict of ethnical beliefs versus scientific progress. It will cover the basic differences between adult stem cell research and embryonic stem cell research, what the arguments of both sides are and how this conflict is dealt with in the EU.
Abstract
(Embryonic) stem cell research is still highly controversial even if confronted with the vast of chances this new technology might bring to mankind. People with strong ethnic and/or religious beliefs struggle with the idea of having the embryos "killed" in order to produce the valuable stem cells.
This paper will focus on the conflict of ethnical beliefs versus scientific progress. It will cover the basic differences between adult stem cell research and embryonic stem cell research, what the arguments of both sides are and how this conflict is dealt with in the EU. (93 words)
Keywords: Stem cell research, ethics, controversy, religion, legislation
1. Introduction
"Thou shalt not kill" is probably the most important commandment of Christianity. Therefore, controversy with embryonic stem cell research seems to be bound to occur. For various reasons, the issue of stem cell research is a very dramatic topic to many people. One needs to ask him- or herself if a cluster of cells should be considered as life equal to a born child's life or if mankind is actually facing the most progressive chance in science.
The most comprehensible argument against stem cell research would be the usage and, therefore, destruction of healthy, viable embryonic cells. The possibility to use cells provided by adults is often mentioned by pro-life activists as the far better solution. The reason behind this might be the religious background of many pro-life activists, which is grounded in their belief that no one but God can give and take life. In 2008, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released a statement on this matter: "[…] Harvesting these 'embryonic stem cells' involves the deliberate killing of innocent human beings, a gravely immoral act. Yet some try to justify it by appealing to a hoped-for future benefit to others" (Malloy, 2008, p. 2). Their choice of word clearly shows their attitude.
Up to now, people suffering from incurable, terminal diseases might understand this point of view as provocation, irrationalism and actually self-contradicting as it condemns them to death. The scientific side is aware of the ethical discussion and states that human dignity needs to be respected but also "considers it important to take into account, based on a precautionary approach, the potential long-term consequences of stem cell research and use for individuals and the society" (McLaren, Hermerén, 2000, p. 15).
Outcome is a highly controversial field of research. This paper concentrates on exploring how patients, scientists, the Church and the legislation of the USA and the EU deal with this issue.
2. Embryonic stem cell research – adult stem cell research
Stem cells are cells that can divide to produce either cells like themselves (self-renewal) or cells of one or several specific differentiated types. Stem cells are not yet fully differentiated and therefore can reconstitute one or several types of tissues (McLaren & Hermerén, 2000, p. 3).
General somatic cells usually hold a very specific purpose within an animal's or the human's body. In opposition to that the body also produces stem cells. Those cells are the most important set of cells as they are unique and not specialized to certain functions: These cells are able to grow into some or even all of the more than 200 different body cell types. Thus, stem cells have a particular role in repairing organs and body tissues throughout life and are – against common belief – not only found in embryos. Early-stage embryos have a far greater variety in stem cells though. Therefore, stem cells retrieved from embryos are more compatible to different types of body cells and are more likely to repair damages than adult stem cells (Johnson & Williams, 2007, p. 3). Given this information it is necessary to define how stem cells, i.e. both embryonic and adult stem cells, are retrieved and how the cells may be applied within different therapies.
2.1. Definitions & differences
There are different methods of how to obtain embryonic stem cells. It is possible to derive stem cells from in-vitro-fertilisation (IVF) embryos or from foetal tissue. This is one of the most controversial points as taking the cells from very early-stage embryos destroys them. Most abortion opponents also adjudge this science as cruel and unethical. Different methods have been developed to produce embryonic stem cells; the IVF-method developed by the University of Wisconsin is the most common today. The embryos used were originally created for the treatment of infertility. The parents may choose to dispose of the excess embryos, make them available for research causes, or have another couple adopt an embryo (Johnson & Williams, 2007, pp. 5-6).
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- Quote paper
- Melanie Buchmayr (Author), 2009, Murder on behalf of science?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/148160
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