Stem Cell

4 Pages 879 Words

There have been several arguments regarding the use of embryonic stem cells for research purposes, from whether or not the use of embryonic stem cells involves the killing of a human being, to whether the government should or should not fund research t involving embryos.
Those who subscribe to the deontological belief regarding embryonic stem cell use, feel that it is morally wrong to destroy embryos for the use of scientific research. Those who follow this belief are strongly oppose the use of embryos, regardless of whether they are from in vitro fertilization, cloning techniques or abortion related. Deontologists believe these embryos represent human life at its very beginning stages. They feel that the use of embryonic stem cells is a murderous act involving the destruction of human life in pursuit of a way to save another. In considering the case involving unused embryos resulting from in vitro fertilization being destroyed (unless otherwise specified through consent of the owner(s)), deontologist still hold true to their belief that it would be morally unethical to use these cells, and would rather them be destroyed.
Utilitarians are in favor of just the opposite. They feel that the use of embryonic stems cells for the use of medical research is a clear case supporting their belief that the end justifies the means. These people feel that in the case of embryos created through the means of in vitro fertilization and later destroyed is a waste of valuable research material. Utilitarians strongly believe that embryonic stem cells hold the key to one of the biggest breakthroughs in the advancement of medical research. Due to the use of embryonic stems cell research, doctors may someday be able to grow and replace damaged organs, and cure diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Although these achievements would be great, the only way for these goals to be realistically attainable would be to continue t...