Quote:
Originally Posted by Rachel
I understand the moral and ethical objections behind abortion and embryonic stem cell research. Abortion, unfortunately, is going to happen - right or wrong, legal or not. I think it's possible to use the cells and retain credibility - it's more than likely a fine line.. But I would, with the science background, rather use the cells for good instead of just discarding them. Not only is it a disregard for human life but a complete waste not once, but twice.
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Thanks for a thought provoking post.
I would like to separate consideration of stem cells harvested from aborted fetuses and those obtained from discarded embryos that are left over from fertility clinics (Test tube babies for want of a better shorthand description).
From my perspective, abortion is Canada's greatest crime, an affront to our shared humanity. It is morally and spiritually repugnant to murder an unborn child in the sanctuary of its mother's womb. I have no doubt that you share my conviction that abortion is absolutely wrong. Our ethical discussion is not focused on the abortion debate, but on the use of aborted fetuses for the benefit of science, and ultimately for the benefit of those suffering from diseases that may be cured by stem cell therapy.
While sympathizing with your view, I do have some serious reservations with the use of stem cells from aborted babies for scientific or therapeutic purposes.
You say, quite logically, "But I would, with the science background, rather use the cells for good instead of just discarding them. Not only is it a disregard for human life but a complete waste not once, but twice." I would counter with the assertion that turning the tiny corpses of these slaughtered babies into a supply line for laboratories continues the disregard for human life that was begun in the abortionist's clinic. I have difficulty seeing research as the redemption of a tragic death, and am more inclined to see it as a second indignity upon a human body.
In what way is using the stem cells from aborted babies different than using the bodies of the victims of history's genocides for scientific research? I don't think that we would endorse the use of the Holocaust's victims for scientific research. Why would aborted babies be afforded less respect?
Perhaps it is impossible to discuss the ethics of stem cell research using the bodies of aborted babies apart from the discussion of the nature of abortion. The point of contention between the secular perspective and the spiritual perspective is centered on the description of the aborted fetus. If the aborted fetus is a collection of cells with the potential of becoming a human being, then our ethical perspective will be much different than if we view the aborted fetus as a human being.
Again, thanks for introducing a thought provoking topic, and I apologize for any emotionally charged language in my post. (I'm a preacher. I can't help it.)