Stem cell research is possibly one of the most hotly contested topics of our age. Much of the debate rests on the use of embryonic stem cells, which has in turn restarted the age-old debate on the question of when life begins. However, some of the arguments put forth by both sides are misleading. The topic is extremely complicated, but provided here is a brief overview of the controversy.

Stem Cells

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are capable of replicating themselves. They also have the unique ability to develop into any type of cell in the human body. The core of an embryonic blastocyst is entirely comprised of stem cells, which go on to form all of the cells of the human body. Stem cells have also been identified in adults, although these are much more limited in quantity and may or may not have the ability to truly develop into any imaginable human cell.

 

The Research

As stem cells have the capacity to develop into any other type of cell, they offer tantalizing possibilities for the future of medical care. It is believed the stem cells could someday be used to treat spinal cord injuries, degenerative conditions and even genetic disorders (when combined with gene therapy). When used in conjunction with cloning techniques, stem cells may someday be used to create replacement organs for those in need of transplants.

The Controversy

Although a limited supply of stem cells can be found in adults, embryos contain core masses of a large supply of stem cells. Consequently, much of the research has focused on embryonic stem cells. However, many people voice a moral or religious opposition to embryonic stem cell research as they feel that it violates the sanctity of human life.

Arguments for Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Utilitarianism and human potential arguments are often used together. The basis of the argument is that embryos under a certain age regularly fail to implant. More embryos are lost to chance than the number that would be required for embryonic stem cell research. Using these embryos in research would ultimately have a far-reaching potential for saving and improving human life, making the small investment worthwhile.

The efficiency argument is also quite common. There are currently far more embryos in storage from in vitro fertility attempts than the number that would be required to create stem cell lines. Once a stem cell line is created, no further embryos need to be destroyed to maintain that line. The unused IVF embryos are currently slated for destruction, so it would be better to use them in research than to allow them to simply be wasted.

Arguments Against Embryonic Stem Cell Research

The main argument against stem cell research is based on the belief that life begins at conception. Many people feel that the soul attaches to the body at the moment of conception and that destroying an embryo is equivalent to murder.

The Bottom Line

Stem cell research is likely to remain controversial for some time to come. The issue is charged on moral, ethical and religious levels, and forces us to consider the deep philosophical questions that have long plagued humans.