Stem Cells and Society

Abstract

The issue of stem cells is highly debated and controversial. Although growing research continues to promise new hope for those suffering with diseases, stem cells continue to spur ethical concerns because of their controversial source. My analysis discusses the effect of this controversial technology on society. Furthermore, my analysis emphasizes the two distinct types of stem cells, adult stem cells and ES cells which have different moral and legal statuses. In terms of ethics, all major religions allow adult stem cell research. But the ethics of ES cells is scattered, some religions opposing and others supporting them. In terms of policies, the United States has taken a restrictive approach towards ES cell research, whereas many other nations have embraced adult and ES cell research