Stem Cell Research

The debate of stem cell research has been around for years. Generally, this debate is based primarily on morally and ethically charged opinions, creating endless controversy. There are many debates over stem cell research that vary in their approach. Some arguments make a more scientific approach, others a more religious approach. It is important to understand and analyze each argument of stem cell research in order to form a non-biased opinion.

To start there are articles on Associated Content’s website and a genetic engineering website that have opposing views. The argument made by Associated Content is in favor of stem cell research, while the genetic engineering website is in opposition.

The Associated Content website’s primary argument is whether stem cell research would “take life, or give life.” This article argues that using embryonic stem cells technically is “taking life,” but it isn’t really unethical because embryonic stem cells are too far from human characteristics. A second argument proposed is that using embryonic stem cells takes the life of a human embryo to potentially save thousands of people.

The genetic engineering website’s primary argument is that under the viability standard established in Roe v. Wade, embryonic stem cells should be considered viable enough to consider living beings. In this case it is unethical to use embryonic stem cells. The other primary argument is that there has been little embryonic stem cell research success in science compared to the use of adult stem cells. This article proposes the use of adult stem cells as an alternative because it is more practical and doesn’t require the death of a human embryo.

Neither article proposes the best argument for their respective side. The first article seems to be based mainly on opinion and little on fact. The second article uses facts in the court case, and even proposes an alternative solution. The second article seems to be more informative and overall more convincing, but neither is great because each article uses more opinion than fact. Other sources should be consulted to build a sound argument on this topic.

I agree with the use of stem cells in research; however, I am opposed to embryonic stem cell research until more significant gains on this front are made. After reviewing these articles my opinion remains unchanged. Each article has its strengths and weakness, but neither is overall persuasive and informative enough to alter my opinion.