General Medicine

» redback - ethics

I agree. The more I read too, the more questions arise.

My understanding is the new law breaks down an existing barrier that prevented not just disease-specific research using embryonic cells, but person-specific so that research results and treatment can be tailored to an individual. Crikey...even regrowing an arm by implanting engineered cells was fancifully mentioned by some (obscure) politician as some futuristic advance.

But I'll re-check. At present, I understand from the quote you cited, research embryos need to be removed from research 14 days. This would prevent say, cloning to an age where "spare parts" become viable, let alone another (unwanted) George Bush.

The 'OR' is an extra condition ie research embryos cannot be used for IVF. Given that currently all research embryos derive from those not needed within IVF, it would mean they can't be returned for IVF use AFTER "tampering" with them. That kinda makes sense.

I haven't read all the article re ethics of IVF above to identify the top 3 compelling arguments of either side. BUT the IVF process selects the most viable as I understand it, Not those with say my ready made-to-order characteristics.

"This debate to my mind is extremely complex..."

Tis why I quoted a stand-alone 'horror' statement. I believe informed Christians et al can grasp the facts. I don't believe uninformed atheists views should carry more weight. I prefer to analyse all sides...incl my own counsel...to be INFORMED.

BUT a didactic view dependent on religious dogma such as those directed by a Pope in a far-off land, does not routinely carry more weight for me. Tis possible the Pope's technical knowledge in this area far exceeds the common man but he appears to rely on selective interpretation of ancient 'laws' that cannot change...so by default, carry bias.

There are no extra brownie points handed out by me by virtue of a person's religious faith nor their political status or leanings. Morality is part of the mix in stem cell debates after all the facts are known. But ask me if Christianity retains the high moral ground on the sanctiity of life and that is a topic for another day.

-- posted by redback