Stem Cell research is definitely a hot topic and that's one of the reasons we'll be looking into it a little more this week. It seems to me that many people weigh in on this topic without the least bit of basic knowledge on the subject (when is that not true of a politically incorrect topic and bullish individuals?); but this specific issue seems to be one in which many are particularly lacking. Now, I don't have an adequate knowledge myself, which is why I'm taking some time to look into it this week. But it would seem that I know a little more than some leading speakers on the issue.
The last time I read anything about stem cell research was probably at the end of 2006 when I was breezing through Sam Harris' Letter to a Christian Nation, and laughed at the sheer lack of basic research and understanding on the issue. His polemic attack on Christianity completely failed to address the key distinction between embryonic and adult stem cell research. An oversight that is common among people who have little regard for the sanctity of life. Back then it was the case that more breakthroughs were being made with research on adult stem cells than embryonic stem cells. In fact, no breakthroughs had been made with research carried out on embryonic stem cells, so it seemed fair for pro-life advocates to rally against the destruction of embryos for fruitless study. A case made stronger by the promise of advances in induced pluripotent stem cell research. And three years on it would appear that the pro-life case is even stronger.
Congressman Mike Pence acknowledges the distinction as he reflects upon the empty promise of embryonic stem cell research. He writes: "There is no right more fundamental than the right to life. There is no realm in which more exciting progress has been made than that of science. And the two are not inherently opposed to one another…I am a Christian who believes that life begins at conception and that a human embryo is human life. Therefore, I believe it is morally wrong to create human life to destroy it for research...Over the past two years, scientific breakthroughs have rendered embryonic stem-cell research obsolete, effectively removing any perceived need to destroy human embryos in the name of science. Adult stem cells have been used to treat an estimated 11,000 patients in the United States in the past two years alone, and over 70 diseases, including Parkinson's and diabetes, have been treated using adult stem cells.
But that's not all. By adding strands of genetic material to adult skin cells, researchers were able to turn normal skin cells into cells that are biologically identical to embryonic stem cells. These altered cells are known as induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, and unlike embryonic stem cells, iPS cells do not require the destruction of human eggs or embryos...Ethical stem-cell research is a marvelous and wonderful exploration of human cells that will lead to more life-saving discoveries...Not only are iPS cells more easily obtainable, but they are also more cost-efficient and effective."
More to come on the sanctity of human life this week and especially this Sunday. Make sure you’re at Grace to discover what the issues are and how to respond.
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