Embryonic Stem Cell Research example essay topic
431 words
Since the decoding of the human genome, genetic engineering and manipulation of genetic material has become a heated topic. As the technology and scientific prowess of our society progresses onwards, so does our control of the things that control our lives. Our population numbers in the billions of people, which is in part due to advances in medical science. Medical science has also painted our society into an ethical corner, per se, concerning the topic of embryonic stem cell research. Approximately four to five days after fertilization, stem cells are the cells that develop in the early stages of the reproduction process. These cells are un-specialized, meaning that they can be grown into other types of specialized tissues. Right away one can begin to see the large potential for the development of stem cells. For example, a large collection of stem cells could be grown into new heart tissue matched to the recipient, or new brain tissue could be grown. The applications of stem cells is not what raises a question of ethical values, it is rather the method in which they are appropriated. Embryonic stem cells can only be cultured from a fertilized human embryo.
Like the complex issue of abortion, the same arguments apply to the topic of stem cell research. When is an embryo a human being, and whether it is right to sacrifice the embryo for the advancement of others. According to utilitarian theory, there is nothing wrong with stem cell research; by the calculus of utilitarians, one human entity will be sacrificed for the good of a great many. Many scientists and researchers appreciate this point of view, as it furthers their causes. Imagine being able to cure Parkinson's disease, lung and heart disease, kidney disease, and the list lengthens as the days go on. Naturally, one view will spawn another, and in this case, the stance that Kantian ethics takes towards embryonic stem cell research is in sharp contrast to that of the utilitarians.
Kant's moral theory strictly says that humans, all forms of human life for that matter, have intrinsic value and not instrumental value. When applied to the issue of stem cells, Kant says that no human embryo may be used for the gain of others. No stem cell research is ethically correct, according to Kant. So, what is one to do when offered the potential key to curing many up until now un-curable diseases, when the cost is one human, albeit premature, life?
