• Question: Why is there so much controversy surrounding embryonic stem cell research?

    Asked by origoody to Anzy, Aoife, Dave, Matt, Tomasz on 12 Nov 2013.
    • Photo: Matthew Tomlinson

      Matthew Tomlinson answered on 12 Nov 2013:

      Hi origoody

      The controversy comes from the origin of the cells, which are embryos produced for IVF treatment. IVF treatment makes a lot of embryos, more than are needed and these embryos, along with those which are not useful for IVF treatment, can be donated to generate embryonic stem cells. The main point of controversy is whether these embryos are considered alive, and whether the destruction of these embryos to generate cells is similar to murder.

      My own view is that these embryos are not alive as they do not posses anything approaching consciousness. Also these embryos would be destroyed anyway as they are not needed for IVF treatment so it is better to use them for research into important developmental questions.

      I hope that answers your question, I’m sure the ES cell biologists can give greater insights.

    • Photo: David Christensen

      David Christensen answered on 12 Nov 2013:

      Matt’s anwer is good and I’d only add that most people who believe that making embryonic stem cells is wrong also believe that IVF is wrong. They believe that we should not make embryos unless they will definitely be allowed to continue to live and develop inside the uterus until birth.

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