General Medicine

» P_Al - Stem cell research

You seem very certain about your position and that is fine. However, there may be other religious, ethical and other argumants that may lead others to differing conclusions.

I think that many disciplines will contribute to this issue. For example, there is a compelling biological argument that the product of conception is genetically distinct from either the sperm or the egg. But fertilization may be a process lasting hours or a couple of days thus muddling the waters further. http://7e.devbio.com/article.php?id=162 (Scroll to "genetic view" near middle of article)

Some may also define life as the acquisition of certain functions e.g. the ability to respond to stimuli, respiration and excretion of waste products. Much of these are carried out by the placenta.

In addition there are philosophical arguments on this issue. For example, it has been suggested that there is a difference between personhood and humanity and this has implications for the rights of an embryo.

If you are interested you could have a look at the following; http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/a... (Scroll to near the bottom)

You may not agree with their arguments and conclusions. However, defining the begining of life is an issue that many, including philosophers have gappled with.

-- posted by P_Al