Why do some people argue that scientists should not use embryonic stem cells in medical research?
A. They think research conducted on these stem cells is not applicable to adults.
B. They think the use of these stem cells is too expensive.
C. They think the use of these stem cells is the same as ending a life.
D. They think research conducted on these stem cells is too difficult.
D. They think research conducted on these stem cells is too difficult.
They argue because they think the use of these stem cells is the same as ending a life. Therefore, option C is correct. This viewpoint is rooted in ethical and moral concerns. Embryonic stem cells are obtained from human embryos, usually from unused embryos created during in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures. Opponents argue that using these stem cells for research purposes involves the destruction of potential human life since the embryos are destroyed in the process of harvesting the cells.
The ethical debate surrounding embryonic stem cell research centers on the question of when life begins and whether it is ethically justifiable to use human embryos for scientific purposes.
Ethical Concerns
Embryonic stem cell research raises ethical concerns due to the source of the cells. Human embryos at the early stages of development are used to extract these stem cells, leading to the destruction of the embryos. This raises questions about the sanctity of human life and the moral implications of using embryos for scientific research.
Source of Stem Cells
The main reason why some people argue against the use of embryonic stem cells in research is the source of these cells. As mentioned earlier, these stem cells are derived from human embryos, which are typically surplus embryos from IVF procedures. Opponents of this research argue that destroying these embryos is equivalent to ending a potential human life, as they believe life begins at conception.
Scientific Alternatives
Some opponents of embryonic stem cell research advocate for the exploration of alternative sources of stem cells that do not involve the destruction of embryos. For example, adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells are two alternatives that are being studied for their potential in medical research. These types of stem cells can be obtained without harming human embryos, addressing the ethical concerns raised by opponents of embryonic stem cell research.
Cost of Research
Another aspect that is often cited by critics of embryonic stem cell research is the cost associated with conducting studies using these cells. The process of obtaining and culturing embryonic stem cells can be expensive, which raises questions about the allocation of resources in the field of medical research. Some argue that these funds could be better utilized in other areas of research that do not raise ethical concerns or require significant financial investments.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the use of embryonic stem cells in medical research is complex and multifaceted. While some argue against the use of these cells due to ethical concerns and the perceived destruction of human life, others believe in the potential scientific advancements that could be achieved through this research. Ultimately, the decision on whether to use embryonic stem cells in research comes down to a balance between scientific progress and ethical considerations.