The debate over stem cell research and human cloning has left many camps divided, but new developments threaten to force lawmakers’ hands to a potentially foolish and careless decision.
On Sunday, Advanced Cell Technology Inc. of Worchester, Mass., announced that its scientists have created the first cloned human embryo. This breakthrough in medical science is a huge step forward in the study of creating new organs and cells for transplantation in humans for therapy.
Stem cells, which can be extracted from an embryo, have the potential to develop into any type of cell found in the human body. Ideally, one could replace damaged heart tissue, spinal tissue or even brain tissue with the medical techniques this research could reveal.
But members of Congress have openly declared their opposition to this research and have flatly stated a ban on human embryo cloning for any purpose is inevitable.
Sens. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., and Richard Shelby, R-Ala., reflect the opinions and viewpoints of those who believe extracting these stem cells, which destroys the embryo, is the same as taking a human life for their organs.
Many liken the procedure to abortion, in that the embryo is destroyed.
But this is not abortion, nor is it meant in the same vein. These embryos, not even past the second or third cell division in most cases, have yet to develop any kind of sentient capacity, or even a nervous system that some pro-life activists use to argue that fetuses feel pain when aborted.
The embryos have not developed past their cellular stage, and as such, are just that - cells. Legislators debate the ethics of this research, but it’s not right for them to effectively tell the masses of terminally ill, paralyzed and severely injured patients that they can’t receive a cure because a new group of cells has the same rights they do.
There’s a difference between cellular life and human life, no matter the source of the cells.
Of course, there is the possibility these procedures could be abused. It’s important to take the stand that taking a human clone to term - creating new life - should be banned. It’s too easy to take things too far.
Other researchers throughout the world are examining the ramifications of stem cell research, and many countries do not plan to ban cloning. It’d be a waste to put a ban on a medical procedure that will be available everywhere else in the world. The technology will be out there, and it makes sense for the United States to be at the forefront of the field.
We have some of the most brilliant scientists in the world, and if it’s in our ability to do so, it’s our responsibility to make sure it’s done right, working with the world community to make the practice safe.
Embryo cloning represents a marvelous gateway to a new way of saving lives and making life better for many people. Putting a ban on something that’s not yet fully understood only slows our growth as a society, and prevents us from advancing our knowledge for future generations to build on.
