Stem Cell Debate in America

Stem cell is not something new Scientists and doctors have been performing this procedure for years with bone marrow, however the debate came to light when scientists learned how to extract these cells from a human embryo. The public have divided into two parts supporters who are excited about these new research and what breakthroughs they can bring into medical practices and the opposite side who are against these type of research due to their unethical practices as they claim. Through this paper we will go over stem cell research briefly and see the argument each side present and their proof hoping that at the end of this research paper we will have a clear view of the issue. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can grow into regular body organs; these cells are interesting to scientists because of their ability to heal and repair themselves quickly. From this property that they have many scientists and researchers thought of using these cells to cure other diseases such heart diseases, diabetes and spinal cord injuries. The side of the debate who are in favor of this type of treatments are arguing that a week old embryo is not a human and using these cells does not mean killing a human and they argue that the embryo is not a human till it two weeks or older when it starts to develop its nervous system. Some other religious groups and sects such as Muslims and Jews consider that a week old embryo is not yet a human being. Supporters also claim that the befits that will come out of this type of research will out weight the moral concern about stem cell. Furthermore they argue that federal

government support will give a huge push to this new field which will allow stem cell research to advance very quickly which eventually will result in miraculous treatment procedures. On the other hand opponents of stem cell research, which are mostly religious groups, claim that an embryo is a human being who has the same rights as anyone else. They hold the belief that life starts with conception, therefore the abuse of an embryo is same as abuse and destruction of human being. Just like religious groups there are atheist groups as well that oppose stem cell research and they claim that it is unethical and unnecessary. Other groups also argue that their tax money should not go into this type of research regardless of their outcome. Anti-abortion groups also oppose stem cell research as they believe that women will be encouraged to have apportion and donate their aborted fetus for the sake of science and research, they claim this will increase the rate of abortion dramatically. Both sides of the argument have solid arguments, the supporters have a valid point in arguing that stem cell will help advance medical research and treat some common diseases, the opponents have a valid point as well in argue that this type of research is unethical and inhuman. Each group holds firm belief in their argument, meaning that this debate will continue to stir emotions and thoughts for years to come. Therefore scientist should find a way on how to derive these stem cells from sources other that human fetus, this the only way that could satisfy both sides.