The Controversy Over Stem Cell Research - 1169 Words

In recent years, stem cell research has become a prominent way of treating: heart disease, cancer, HIV/AIDS, spinal problems, and much more ; moreover, in recent years as Stem cell research became more popular, it has sparked controversy over the religion aspect of stem cell research. Stem cell research begins with culturing an embryonic cell and then injecting the stem cell into the area of concern(Robertson). Pluripotent stem cells are gathered and used to treat the areas, pluripotent stem cells are those that are in the earliest stages of development ; in addition, at this stage, cells can learn the jobs and take shape of cells that did the job once before (Robertson). Unfortunately, even though stem cell research can prove to be†¦show more content†¦Although to some scientist, human embryos are not considered to be a human at that point because they cannot feel pain ; on the contrary, religious groups believe that a human embryo should have the same human rights as a liv e human. The picture above helps show the controversy between the two sides. Scientist believe that stem cell research should be allowed if the stem cells are cultured within the first trimester (Lazar). They believe this because during the first trimester, the embryo is just a small cluster of cells. It is not affected by the outside environment, it does not react to pain; in addition, it also does not react to pleasure. The pros of Stem Cell Research and Treatment are never ending. There is an account of two women being completely blind, but due to stem cell research, their sight was repaired. Another case is that of a ninety-five year old woman who was taken off medication and her health somewhat restored due to the use of stem cells. Doctors were able to inject stem cells into her heart and they took the shape of heart neurons. In past years, some states have completely banned stem cell research and stem cell treatment; none the less, a recent court case ruled that fetuses are not con sidered to be human until after the first trimester because that is when they begin to react to pain and pleasure (Robertson). Although some view stem cell research as immoral and wrong, others