Stem Cells - Ethics, Smethics Fill Me Up!

Finally an adventure that I know absolutely everything about...errrrr...yeah... so maybe not, but that's not to say that my experience was any less interesting. Tonight Carmel, Mase, Gray, Natalie, Mom, and I decided to get our knowledge on and attend a Human Embryonic Stem Cell lecture at the Ruben H. Fleet Science Center. First and foremost, ask yourself this question: How long has it been since you actually been inside the Science Center? Honestly, elementary school was the last time I had the child like enthusiasm of running around playing with all the experiments, fascinated with the lights, sounds, and science!!!

Anyways getting back on topic, and continuing the honest trend, I can safely that there were a few words that flew over our heads like a graceful vultures, who feasted on what was left of our melted brains. Overall, the topic is quite intriguing - as one thinks about stem cell research immediately the ethical flags fly, where the definition of a life or living being becomes a contention. The most highly publicized research revolves around post-embryonic development of stem cells (meaning after fertilization of the egg). The lecture tonight was about the creation of stem cells from unfertilized eggs.. meaning no genetic imprint, no embryonic development whatsoever!

Now I am not here to preach about the ethical implications, and definitely not about the science behind their discovery, but about the potential this research can effect society. Imagine curing the blind, replacing (growing) major organs, curing diabetes the upsides seem to be endless. the problem I see is not with the creation of stem cells, it is the business model and rules and regulations that would need to be created to govern the scientists and ultimately how the pharmaceutical companies can profit off a discovery that can save lives. Doesn't that just wreak of jaded American capitalist cynicism?

As the american public debates and the FDA enforces a ridiculous policy, just ask yourself one question: What if you could be saved?

- Cheers