|
|
Food for Thought |
|
|
Previous Editorials The Hubble's Destiny
Philosophy and Science
Knowledge and Science
Nanotechnology
|
Embryonic stem-cell research : Is science crossing its boundaries?
by: Mario Solari, Techlearner Editor Date: November 13, 2004
As elections were happening in the US the topic of Embryonic stem-cell certainly acquired relevance with voters aligning themselves towards Kerry's or Bush's views for the upcoming four years. But certainly, although this issue had political implications at the moment, it constitutes a much deeper struggle in an effort to reconcile the works of science with those of an intrinsic natural law governing human nature. According to natural law the only purpose of having a fertilized egg is to provide for the creation of a new life. Thus, using an embryonic stem-cell for any other purpose and causing that life to cease to exist in the process is in direct opposition to that moral law. As science continues to dazzle us with ever more inventive gadgets and advances there is always the danger that we could cross that thin boundary separating us from "playing Gods". Yes, it is true that in the past erroneous connotations of religious beliefs regarding the universe and perhaps also of what evolution means have stopped us from making important steps in our progress such as recognizing the fact that the earth is not the center of the universe or that evolution has in fact taken place in the development of the different species. However, the clear indication that adult stem-cell research can continue helping us in curing diseases is one more sign that we should stay clear from embryonic stem-cell research, since there is no real need for such a venture. In any case we should always let our moral instincts guide us and resort to studying each specific issue under the light of natural law when using science for progress, specially when the implications are so clear as in this case.
Please submit any comments to: webmaster@techlearner.com
|
