Yep... That cartoon is just one example of an opinion among many others, concerning the controversy that encircles stem cell research... Ok so what exactly makes stem cell research "controversial?" Well before I get into that I did some investigating about the basics of stem cells and how it develops in the human body:
1. Stem cells are formed in the bone marrow and are undifferentiated, meaning they can become any type of cell that the body needs in order for it to survive and continue living without complications.
2. Stem cells can either be embryonic or non-embryonic (adult) cells.
3. Embryonic cells will develop on to become a fetus. The embryo is the union of an egg and sperm cell, later develop into a fetus.
4. Non-embryonic (adult) cells are repairable and found in both children and adults.
5. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is the destruction of the embryonic cell and is performed in laboratories. Instead of continuing in the womb, the embryo that is 3-5 days old, is taken from the mother (with consent from the couple, or mother) and cultured in the lab to commence the study.
Below is an image of the manipulation of an embryonic stem cell in a research lab... This is the most focused stem cell research and the one that poses much controversy in society. The reason why researchers focus on this study particularly, is because the embryonic cell has the potential to become any cell in the body that can provide cure, if researchers find a way...
Perhaps the main cause of the controversy that surrounds stem cell research, is the varying opinions about where life begins... Opponents argue that the embryonic stage (the mere fusion of egg and sperm cells) should already be considered as the start of life and tampering with that, is posing harm to the "person." Supporters of the research, on the other hand, argue against it. They believe there is no harm being done since it is still too early in the development for it to be considered a real human being.
So where should we stand? Now that we have been making progress not only on technological development, but also in medical advancement? Are we going on the right direction here? There are still research out there hoping to find a cure. Should we still persist? Or should we not resist the degeneration of life as it presents to us? There have been more questions now than ever before. Is that a good thing? Where do you think we are headed in terms of curing diseases?
Below is a neat image that illustrates the potential benefits of stem cell research to the ailments of the human body...
Please voice your opinions in a comment down below! Thank you!
Perhaps the arguments given by some, are applicable if placed only within a specific context, but seem absurd in others. If at an embryonic stage the conception of a child is not considered beyond just a simple fetus, then we must also stop and wonder, why then are pregnant women asked not to drink, smoke or do anything potentially dangerous to the formation of the child (fetus) within them? Why is the formation of this embryo seen as more highly protected under certain circumstances but not under others? The end result is still the same: a human being. But up to what extent is justification for the continued advancement of our knowledge valid?
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