Chapter 3, Problem 1QC

What is your opinion on this controversy? What basic beliefs do you hold that cause you to feel as you do?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The controversy created due to human stem cell research.

Introduction:

A stem cell is a type of cell, which has not yet differentiated or acquired a specialized function. It can acquire a certain specialization upon receiving certain signals under appropriate conditions. This property of stem cells can be utilized to create different types of cells in a laboratory from stem cells by keeping them in certain appropriate conditions.

Explanation of Solution

Stem cells can be utilized in various fields of research. It can be used to study certain cell types and diseases. Stem cell research also has various clinical applications such as the treatment of diseases (stem cell therapy), which cannot be treated by other traditional methods. Thus, a person related to science should have an opinion that stem cell research should be supported.

The basic belief that leads to support stem cell research is that it can be used to benefit those, who are suffering from certain diseases like Parkinson's disease, which cannot be cured using conventional medical methods. Stem cell research also allows researchers to study diseases by creating disease models.

Such research would help in the further understanding and treatment of these diseases. Thus, it holds a promise with regard to improving the quality of human life. The counter-argument to stem cell research arises due to the use of human embryonic tissue, which is usually obtained from aborted fetuses. Some people may object to this due to their religious beliefs.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the controversy arising from stem cell research mainly arises due to the different belief systems held by different people. It is considered unethical but it holds many positive points that could benefit the mankind.