The Multi-Directional Controversy of Embryonic Research

930 Words2 Pages

The main problem here is the very fact that there is so much controversy. If we seek, we can most assuredly find it in almost any/every topic, hence making any topic arguable when opposing views are present. Focusing on the positive aspects, rather than the negative, can, at the very least, assist with “diluting” the controversy that envelops the ultimate purpose for such research. Placing so much emphasis on negative aspects just seems to put so many restrictions on procedure and technicalities, that whether or not the research itself were to become “unanimously accepted,” such restrictions could be a hindrance. With the developments and advances in these studies, isn't this controversial burden only serving as an anchor, as we attempt to sail to greater, novel concepts?
Making accomodations to nurse the moral issues that some may have is completely understandable. All things being equal, who doesn't want their opinion to be valued or at least considered? From multiple forms of consent-type to specific restrictions on “acceptable” embryonic use, a reasonable attempt has been made to maintain balance between the ever-growing lists of pros and cons that we face when dealing in sensitive topics such as this one.
Though it is believed to be more ethical and “just” to allow for requests and opinions of our society to be heard, we must not get ahead of ourselves in terms of accomodations. This type of behavior can quickly be taken for granted, creating disorder and resentment. Placing too many restrictions on the details of this research could be limiting (and a great inconvenience), hence almost defeating the entire purpose.
The fact that these stem cells are from embryonic tissue means they can come from excess cells after freezi...

... middle of paper ...

...No. 2: 115-121.
Falco, Miriam. “FDA approves human embryonic stem cell study,” CNN Medical News 23 Jan. 2009.
Gupta, Sanjay. “First human injected in human embryonic stem cell trial,” CNN Health: The Chart 11 Oct. 2010.
Patel, P., “A Natural Stem Cell Therapy? How Novel Findings and Biotechnology Clarify the Ethics of Stem Cell Research.” Journal of Medical Ethics, Vol. 32, No. 4, Apr. 2006: 235- 239.
Reaves, Jessica. “The Great Debate Over Stem Cell Research,” TIME 11 July 2001.

    More about The Multi-Directional Controversy of Embryonic Research

      Open Document