Embryonic Stem Cell Research: An Ethical Debate

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Embryonic stem cell research is, perhaps, one of the most divisive ethical issues of the millennium. These cells are thought by many to hold the cures for such diseases as diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, heart disease and even cancer. Some researchers believe that these cells could heal spinal cord injuries, allowing a once paralyzed man to walk again. Despite the numerous potential benefits, the issue is exceedingly controversial and has sparked much debate, primarily over one sole reason: embryonic stem cell research causes the destruction of an embryo. This debate can be epitomized into two questions: when does human life begin and what makes an organism human. The answers to these questions are usually opinionated and not backed …show more content…

Consistent with my religion, I believe that human life begins at conception, this belief is also consistent with scientific evidence. “When the egg and sperm join at conception, the baby will have 46 chromosomes in its cells, just like the parents” (Australian Center for Genetics Information). “A human is defined as an organism having 46 chromosomes” (National Institutes for Health). These quotations further proves my point that all embryos are, in fact, human. Therefore, if embryos are human, they should not be killed to be used in …show more content…

However despite this, it should be known that most scientists are not trying to change the human race, but instead are trying to fix the biological hiccups in DNA such as genetic diseases and cancer. Stem Cell research is the future of healthcare and has already led to several medical advancements such as the invention of synthetic insulin. “Scientists have discovered that embryonic stem cells have the potential to cure spinal cord injuries, as well as diseases such as juvenile diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson's” (Mendez, “Stem Cell Research,” 18). There are literally endless possibilities for stem cells hidden behind a metaphorical locked door and in order to better understand them, we first need to unlock that door, and the key is hidden somewhere within embryonic stem

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