Cynthia B. Cohen
David E. Guinn (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195178739
- eISBN:
- 9780199784943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195178734.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This chapter argues that although there are certain limits on how religious bodies and their members should attempt to insert their beliefs into public policy matters, religiously based arguments ...
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This chapter argues that although there are certain limits on how religious bodies and their members should attempt to insert their beliefs into public policy matters, religiously based arguments should, as a matter of principle, be allowed to enter into public debate. This is the case even when many participants in these debates do not accept the premises on which the arguments of religious believers are constructed. The first part of the chapter considers the stances that various religious bodies and commentators have taken publicly regarding embryonic stem cell research and the ways in which they have justified their views in the course of public discussion. It then examines why critics of religious bodies object to the introduction of religious views into public policy debates and offer several responses to these critics, using the responses of religious bodies and thinkers to embryonic stem cell research as examples. Finally, the chapter sets out an alternative view that offers a system for allowing religious bodies to present their views in the public sphere, provided that they follow certain practices that allow fair and open debate.Less
This chapter argues that although there are certain limits on how religious bodies and their members should attempt to insert their beliefs into public policy matters, religiously based arguments should, as a matter of principle, be allowed to enter into public debate. This is the case even when many participants in these debates do not accept the premises on which the arguments of religious believers are constructed. The first part of the chapter considers the stances that various religious bodies and commentators have taken publicly regarding embryonic stem cell research and the ways in which they have justified their views in the course of public discussion. It then examines why critics of religious bodies object to the introduction of religious views into public policy debates and offer several responses to these critics, using the responses of religious bodies and thinkers to embryonic stem cell research as examples. Finally, the chapter sets out an alternative view that offers a system for allowing religious bodies to present their views in the public sphere, provided that they follow certain practices that allow fair and open debate.
Nigel M. de S. Cameron
David E. Guinn (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195178739
- eISBN:
- 9780199784943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195178734.003.0015
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
The series of policy positions of the US administration in the opening years of the “biotech century” in respect to cloning, embryonic stem cell research, and the patenting of human embryos offers a ...
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The series of policy positions of the US administration in the opening years of the “biotech century” in respect to cloning, embryonic stem cell research, and the patenting of human embryos offers a case study in the development of public policy that, though it has been developed in the context of secular argument, reflects distinctive concerns of Christian theology. Through several events (including the development of mammalian cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer, the pursuit by Bill Clinton's administration of a workaround for congressional bans on embryo research, the UN Franco-German cloning initiative, and concerns over intellectual property claims on human nature), the Bush administration has confronted a series of policy decisions affecting the ethical-legal framework for biotechnology. Though there has been little explicitly Christian reflection within the bioethics community, Christians together with other thinkers have recognized that these questions could determine the scope and course of developments in biotechnology.Less
The series of policy positions of the US administration in the opening years of the “biotech century” in respect to cloning, embryonic stem cell research, and the patenting of human embryos offers a case study in the development of public policy that, though it has been developed in the context of secular argument, reflects distinctive concerns of Christian theology. Through several events (including the development of mammalian cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer, the pursuit by Bill Clinton's administration of a workaround for congressional bans on embryo research, the UN Franco-German cloning initiative, and concerns over intellectual property claims on human nature), the Bush administration has confronted a series of policy decisions affecting the ethical-legal framework for biotechnology. Though there has been little explicitly Christian reflection within the bioethics community, Christians together with other thinkers have recognized that these questions could determine the scope and course of developments in biotechnology.
Ruth Deech and Anna Smajdor
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199219780
- eISBN:
- 9780191713002
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199219780.003.0009
- Subject:
- Law, Medical Law
This chapter provides a concise overview of what embryonic stem cells are. It lists alternative sources of stem cells, and weigh their respective merits. Ethical concerns relating to embryonic stem ...
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This chapter provides a concise overview of what embryonic stem cells are. It lists alternative sources of stem cells, and weigh their respective merits. Ethical concerns relating to embryonic stem cell research are analysed, including arguments related to personhood and potential. The fact that embryonic stem cell research creates a new demand for eggs, and the impact of this on women is discussed. Claims related to the therapeutic potential of stem cell research are considered, and different approaches to the regulation of stem cell research in the UK, Germany, Italy, and the US are evaluated.Less
This chapter provides a concise overview of what embryonic stem cells are. It lists alternative sources of stem cells, and weigh their respective merits. Ethical concerns relating to embryonic stem cell research are analysed, including arguments related to personhood and potential. The fact that embryonic stem cell research creates a new demand for eggs, and the impact of this on women is discussed. Claims related to the therapeutic potential of stem cell research are considered, and different approaches to the regulation of stem cell research in the UK, Germany, Italy, and the US are evaluated.
Bonnie Steinbock
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- September 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195341621
- eISBN:
- 9780199897131
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195341621.003.0014
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy, Philosophy of Science
Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research involves the destruction of embryos. On the interest view, embryos lack moral standing, but research that kills embryos is deeply offensive to many people. ...
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Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research involves the destruction of embryos. On the interest view, embryos lack moral standing, but research that kills embryos is deeply offensive to many people. Moreover, it is claimed that the research is unnecessary because just as much progress can be made using either adult stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, neither of which involves destroying embryos. Thus, the chapter begins with an in-depth look at the science. The chapter concludes that, while no one can guarantee that the research will pan out, the potential benefit to humanity makes it clearly worth pursuing. However, embryos are not mere stuff. They have moral value and are entitled to a kind of respect, even if not the kind of respect due to persons. We demonstrate respect for embryos by restricting our use of them to important purposes. The chapter argues that it is not disrespectful to create embryos for research, and it is permissible to pay women who donate eggs for research. It then looks at attempts to ban the creation of chimeras and hybrids, arguing that virtually all of the proposed legislation is based on a misunderstanding of the science. The chapter ends with a look at law and policy in the United States and abroad with respect to cloning and stem cell research.Less
Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research involves the destruction of embryos. On the interest view, embryos lack moral standing, but research that kills embryos is deeply offensive to many people. Moreover, it is claimed that the research is unnecessary because just as much progress can be made using either adult stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, neither of which involves destroying embryos. Thus, the chapter begins with an in-depth look at the science. The chapter concludes that, while no one can guarantee that the research will pan out, the potential benefit to humanity makes it clearly worth pursuing. However, embryos are not mere stuff. They have moral value and are entitled to a kind of respect, even if not the kind of respect due to persons. We demonstrate respect for embryos by restricting our use of them to important purposes. The chapter argues that it is not disrespectful to create embryos for research, and it is permissible to pay women who donate eggs for research. It then looks at attempts to ban the creation of chimeras and hybrids, arguing that virtually all of the proposed legislation is based on a misunderstanding of the science. The chapter ends with a look at law and policy in the United States and abroad with respect to cloning and stem cell research.
David E. Guinn (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195178739
- eISBN:
- 9780199784943
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195178734.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This book discusses the role of religion in a religiously pluralistic liberal society, namely the United States. Nowhere else in the public realm do the fundamental religious questions about the ...
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This book discusses the role of religion in a religiously pluralistic liberal society, namely the United States. Nowhere else in the public realm do the fundamental religious questions about the meaning and nature of life arise in a context where resort to a political answer is the norm. Many people continue to insist that the US Constitution precludes religious participation in the political process, while others insist that by denying a role to religion we fundamentally discriminate against people of faith. As the chapters in this book demonstrate, the issues are complex and multifaceted. The book address such specific and highly contested issues as assisted suicide, stem cell research, cloning, reproductive health, and alternative medicine as well as general questions concerning as who legitimately speaks for religion in public bioethics, what religion can add to our understanding of justice, and the value of faith-based contributions to healthcare. The book begins with overview chapters about the role of religion in bioethics since the inception of the field. It then explores that role in the formation of public policy in terms of sociology, critical studies, philosophy, and religious studies. The book questions the distinction between public policy bioethics and clinical care, recognizing the close interconnection between the two. It offers insight on how religion shapes questions of justice in patient care and the ethical tools provided by Islam, Buddhism, and Evangelical Christianity that can be used both in advocating for public policy and in making individual care decisions. Over the last five to ten years, researchers have begun to explore the efficacy of religion as a mode of treatment.Less
This book discusses the role of religion in a religiously pluralistic liberal society, namely the United States. Nowhere else in the public realm do the fundamental religious questions about the meaning and nature of life arise in a context where resort to a political answer is the norm. Many people continue to insist that the US Constitution precludes religious participation in the political process, while others insist that by denying a role to religion we fundamentally discriminate against people of faith. As the chapters in this book demonstrate, the issues are complex and multifaceted. The book address such specific and highly contested issues as assisted suicide, stem cell research, cloning, reproductive health, and alternative medicine as well as general questions concerning as who legitimately speaks for religion in public bioethics, what religion can add to our understanding of justice, and the value of faith-based contributions to healthcare. The book begins with overview chapters about the role of religion in bioethics since the inception of the field. It then explores that role in the formation of public policy in terms of sociology, critical studies, philosophy, and religious studies. The book questions the distinction between public policy bioethics and clinical care, recognizing the close interconnection between the two. It offers insight on how religion shapes questions of justice in patient care and the ethical tools provided by Islam, Buddhism, and Evangelical Christianity that can be used both in advocating for public policy and in making individual care decisions. Over the last five to ten years, researchers have begun to explore the efficacy of religion as a mode of treatment.
Adil E. Shamoo and David B. Resnik
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195368246
- eISBN:
- 9780199867615
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195368246.003.0014
- Subject:
- Biology, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology
This chapter provides an overview of ethical, social, and policy issues related to research on human genetics and embryonic stem cells. It covers such topics as genetic engineering of animals and ...
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This chapter provides an overview of ethical, social, and policy issues related to research on human genetics and embryonic stem cells. It covers such topics as genetic engineering of animals and plants; genetic testing, privacy, and discrimination; storage of genetic samples, returning research results to subjects; family genetic testing; somatic gene therapy; germ line manipulation; intellectual property concerns; embryonic stem cell research; and cloning.Less
This chapter provides an overview of ethical, social, and policy issues related to research on human genetics and embryonic stem cells. It covers such topics as genetic engineering of animals and plants; genetic testing, privacy, and discrimination; storage of genetic samples, returning research results to subjects; family genetic testing; somatic gene therapy; germ line manipulation; intellectual property concerns; embryonic stem cell research; and cloning.
Thomas Banchoff
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195307221
- eISBN:
- 9780199785513
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195307221.003.0017
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter has three sections. The first section examines a methodological problem — how to describe and compare the evolution of national controversies. The second compares the evolution of embryo ...
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This chapter has three sections. The first section examines a methodological problem — how to describe and compare the evolution of national controversies. The second compares the evolution of embryo politics in the United States and France in the two decades before the stem cell and cloning breakthroughs. It traces the emergence of powerful religious (in the United States) and secular (in France) coalitions opposed to research. The third section shows how the promise of stem cell and cloning research undermined these coalitions and generated a more open debate marked by more diverse religious and secular voices in favor of liberal research regimes.Less
This chapter has three sections. The first section examines a methodological problem — how to describe and compare the evolution of national controversies. The second compares the evolution of embryo politics in the United States and France in the two decades before the stem cell and cloning breakthroughs. It traces the emergence of powerful religious (in the United States) and secular (in France) coalitions opposed to research. The third section shows how the promise of stem cell and cloning research undermined these coalitions and generated a more open debate marked by more diverse religious and secular voices in favor of liberal research regimes.
Thomas Banchoff
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780801449574
- eISBN:
- 9780801460593
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9780801449574.003.0004
- Subject:
- Political Science, Public Policy
This chapter discusses embryo politics in United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany that emerged from the twin cloning and embryonic stem cell breakthroughs of 1997–98. The promise of a new ...
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This chapter discusses embryo politics in United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany that emerged from the twin cloning and embryonic stem cell breakthroughs of 1997–98. The promise of a new era of regenerative medicine reframed old debates about the moral status of the embryo and the importance of biomedical advances. It also captured the public imagination and with it the attention of their elected political leaders. On both sides of the Atlantic political battles erupted around how to remake, or at least adapt, the policy regimes forged in an earlier era. The rise of an ethic of healing intersected with electoral politics, interest group mobilization, and existing institutions to drive divergent policy outcomes.Less
This chapter discusses embryo politics in United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany that emerged from the twin cloning and embryonic stem cell breakthroughs of 1997–98. The promise of a new era of regenerative medicine reframed old debates about the moral status of the embryo and the importance of biomedical advances. It also captured the public imagination and with it the attention of their elected political leaders. On both sides of the Atlantic political battles erupted around how to remake, or at least adapt, the policy regimes forged in an earlier era. The rise of an ethic of healing intersected with electoral politics, interest group mobilization, and existing institutions to drive divergent policy outcomes.
Thomas Banchoff
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780801449574
- eISBN:
- 9780801460593
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9780801449574.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Public Policy
This chapter tracks the path of stem cell research that culminated in the isolation of human embryonic stem cells in 1998 and the prospect of therapeutic cloning. It then charts the rise of an ethic ...
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This chapter tracks the path of stem cell research that culminated in the isolation of human embryonic stem cells in 1998 and the prospect of therapeutic cloning. It then charts the rise of an ethic of healing in the field of bioethics, across religious communities, and among public intellectuals in the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany, setting out the main arguments that would be seized on by proresearch scientific, medical, biotechnology, and patient-advocacy organizations. A final section looks to the work of national ethics committees in articulating the major arguments and making recommendations that set the stage for new policy and political struggles into the first decade of the twenty-first century.Less
This chapter tracks the path of stem cell research that culminated in the isolation of human embryonic stem cells in 1998 and the prospect of therapeutic cloning. It then charts the rise of an ethic of healing in the field of bioethics, across religious communities, and among public intellectuals in the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany, setting out the main arguments that would be seized on by proresearch scientific, medical, biotechnology, and patient-advocacy organizations. A final section looks to the work of national ethics committees in articulating the major arguments and making recommendations that set the stage for new policy and political struggles into the first decade of the twenty-first century.
Shawn HE Harmon
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199545520
- eISBN:
- 9780191721113
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199545520.003.0009
- Subject:
- Law, Medical Law
This chapter considers and compares the stem cell research (SCR) regulation of two different jurisdictions: Argentina, a southern developing country and technology importer with aspirations to become ...
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This chapter considers and compares the stem cell research (SCR) regulation of two different jurisdictions: Argentina, a southern developing country and technology importer with aspirations to become an SCR power, and the United Kingdom, a northern developed country and recognized SCR leader. In addition to exposing the content and characterizing the model of the regulation adopted in each jurisdiction, the chapter considers how (and whether) the values have manifested within the regulation, and how (and whether) the regulation enhances or realizes these values ‘on the ground’ (i.e., do they translate these moral values into binding action guiding-legal rules?). It is shown that the morality of SCR remains contested, and so long as this situation endures, the chance of formal legal harmonization of substantive practices remains remote.Less
This chapter considers and compares the stem cell research (SCR) regulation of two different jurisdictions: Argentina, a southern developing country and technology importer with aspirations to become an SCR power, and the United Kingdom, a northern developed country and recognized SCR leader. In addition to exposing the content and characterizing the model of the regulation adopted in each jurisdiction, the chapter considers how (and whether) the values have manifested within the regulation, and how (and whether) the regulation enhances or realizes these values ‘on the ground’ (i.e., do they translate these moral values into binding action guiding-legal rules?). It is shown that the morality of SCR remains contested, and so long as this situation endures, the chance of formal legal harmonization of substantive practices remains remote.
Elaine Howard Ecklund
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195392982
- eISBN:
- 9780199777105
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195392982.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
Americans support science as well as religion—but these two things are often at odds. In the wake of recent controversies about teaching intelligent design and the ethics of embryonic-stem- cell ...
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Americans support science as well as religion—but these two things are often at odds. In the wake of recent controversies about teaching intelligent design and the ethics of embryonic-stem- cell research, greater understanding between scientists and the general religious public is critical. What is needed is a balanced assessment of the middle ground that can exist between science and religion. Science vs. Religion: What Do Scientists Really Think? is the definitive statement on this timely, politically charged subject. After thousands of hours spent talking to the nation’s leading scientists, Elaine Howard Ecklund argues that the American public has widespread misconceptions about scientists’ views of religion. Few scientists are committed secularists. Only a small minority actively reject and work against religion. And many are themselves religious. The majority are whom she calls spiritual pioneers, who desire to link their spirituality with a greater mission for the work they do as scientists. In the current climate, even scientists who are not religious recognize that they must engage with religion as they are pressed by their students to respond to faith in the classroom—what Ecklund calls environmental push. Based on a survey and interviews with scientists at more than 20 elite U.S. universities, Ecklund’s book argues that other scientists must step up to the table of dialogue and that American believers must embrace science again. Both science and religion are at stake if any less is done.Less
Americans support science as well as religion—but these two things are often at odds. In the wake of recent controversies about teaching intelligent design and the ethics of embryonic-stem- cell research, greater understanding between scientists and the general religious public is critical. What is needed is a balanced assessment of the middle ground that can exist between science and religion. Science vs. Religion: What Do Scientists Really Think? is the definitive statement on this timely, politically charged subject. After thousands of hours spent talking to the nation’s leading scientists, Elaine Howard Ecklund argues that the American public has widespread misconceptions about scientists’ views of religion. Few scientists are committed secularists. Only a small minority actively reject and work against religion. And many are themselves religious. The majority are whom she calls spiritual pioneers, who desire to link their spirituality with a greater mission for the work they do as scientists. In the current climate, even scientists who are not religious recognize that they must engage with religion as they are pressed by their students to respond to faith in the classroom—what Ecklund calls environmental push. Based on a survey and interviews with scientists at more than 20 elite U.S. universities, Ecklund’s book argues that other scientists must step up to the table of dialogue and that American believers must embrace science again. Both science and religion are at stake if any less is done.
John Hearn
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199545520
- eISBN:
- 9780191721113
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199545520.003.0008
- Subject:
- Law, Medical Law
This chapter reviews some selected scientific advances as milestones in the development of the field of stem cell biology, and comments on the ethical, religious, and regulatory debate that has ...
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This chapter reviews some selected scientific advances as milestones in the development of the field of stem cell biology, and comments on the ethical, religious, and regulatory debate that has surrounded the often startling discoveries in cell and developmental biology. The chapter reflects the status of the field at the start of 2008 in the knowledge that there will certainly be further, significant discoveries over the next year and beyond that will reshape the debate further.Less
This chapter reviews some selected scientific advances as milestones in the development of the field of stem cell biology, and comments on the ethical, religious, and regulatory debate that has surrounded the often startling discoveries in cell and developmental biology. The chapter reflects the status of the field at the start of 2008 in the knowledge that there will certainly be further, significant discoveries over the next year and beyond that will reshape the debate further.
Sheldon Krimsky
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- November 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780231167482
- eISBN:
- 9780231539401
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231167482.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Bioethics
“Stem cells” have become linked with both new frontiers in medical science and political and ethical controversy. The field, along with the emerging area of regenerative medicine, is creating the ...
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“Stem cells” have become linked with both new frontiers in medical science and political and ethical controversy. The field, along with the emerging area of regenerative medicine, is creating the conditions for a time when damaged tissue and organs might be repaired through personalized cell therapy as easily as the body repairs itself, therefore revolutionizing the treatment of numerous diseases. Yet to obtain human embryonic stem cells, scientists must destroy human embryos—a prospect that has provoked intense reactions among the American public. Addressing the moral and ethical issues of stem cell research while also educating readers about the biological function and medical applications of these cells, this book features fictional characters engaging in compelling inquiry and debate. Participants investigate the scientific, political, and socio-ethical dimensions of stem cell science using actual language, analysis, and arguments taken from scientific, philosophical, and popular literature. Each dialogue centers on a specific, recognizable topic, such as the policies implemented by the George W. Bush administration restricting the use of embryonic stem cells; the potential role of stem cells in personalized medicine; the ethics of cloning; and the sale of eggs and embryos. Additionally, speakers debate the use of stem cells to treat paralysis, diabetes, stroke effects, macular degeneration, and cancer.Less
“Stem cells” have become linked with both new frontiers in medical science and political and ethical controversy. The field, along with the emerging area of regenerative medicine, is creating the conditions for a time when damaged tissue and organs might be repaired through personalized cell therapy as easily as the body repairs itself, therefore revolutionizing the treatment of numerous diseases. Yet to obtain human embryonic stem cells, scientists must destroy human embryos—a prospect that has provoked intense reactions among the American public. Addressing the moral and ethical issues of stem cell research while also educating readers about the biological function and medical applications of these cells, this book features fictional characters engaging in compelling inquiry and debate. Participants investigate the scientific, political, and socio-ethical dimensions of stem cell science using actual language, analysis, and arguments taken from scientific, philosophical, and popular literature. Each dialogue centers on a specific, recognizable topic, such as the policies implemented by the George W. Bush administration restricting the use of embryonic stem cells; the potential role of stem cells in personalized medicine; the ethics of cloning; and the sale of eggs and embryos. Additionally, speakers debate the use of stem cells to treat paralysis, diabetes, stroke effects, macular degeneration, and cancer.
Tamra Lysaght and Alastair V. Campbell
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199682676
- eISBN:
- 9780191763168
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199682676.003.0001
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy
Regenerative medicine has gained prominence in the field of bioethics through the emergence of human embryonic stem cell research. This area of research has generated extensive public, political and ...
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Regenerative medicine has gained prominence in the field of bioethics through the emergence of human embryonic stem cell research. This area of research has generated extensive public, political and bioethical debate, which has focused almost exclusively on two issues: the moral status of human embryos and the duty to care for the sick and vulnerable. This preoccupation, especially on the question of moral status, has not only dichotomised the debate around two fundamentally incommensurable positions, it has come at the cost of other important issues being largely ignored. In highlighting some of the bioethical and regulatory deficiencies of this impoverished approach, the authors draw on recent developments in the experimental use of autologous stem cell treatments to argue for a more inclusive approach to the ethics of regenerative medicine. The authors conclude with some reflections on the normative role of bioethics and its limitations in shaping public policy.Less
Regenerative medicine has gained prominence in the field of bioethics through the emergence of human embryonic stem cell research. This area of research has generated extensive public, political and bioethical debate, which has focused almost exclusively on two issues: the moral status of human embryos and the duty to care for the sick and vulnerable. This preoccupation, especially on the question of moral status, has not only dichotomised the debate around two fundamentally incommensurable positions, it has come at the cost of other important issues being largely ignored. In highlighting some of the bioethical and regulatory deficiencies of this impoverished approach, the authors draw on recent developments in the experimental use of autologous stem cell treatments to argue for a more inclusive approach to the ethics of regenerative medicine. The authors conclude with some reflections on the normative role of bioethics and its limitations in shaping public policy.
Rohini Kandhari
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199463374
- eISBN:
- 9780199086993
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199463374.003.0010
- Subject:
- Sociology, Health, Illness, and Medicine, Population and Demography
Surprisingly, despite more than twenty years of state investment, stem cell science in India remains at a very preliminary stage. In contrast, venture capital investments in stem cell science has ...
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Surprisingly, despite more than twenty years of state investment, stem cell science in India remains at a very preliminary stage. In contrast, venture capital investments in stem cell science has surged ahead, matched in India by an unregulated nature of medical care in India. The author examines how patients with certain diseases are being offered speculative stem cell treatments in a number of cities in India. Additionally, she explores how a public policy–led growth of medical tourism has also facilitated the stem cell industry. Patients from abroad—the so-called therapeutic refugees—now come to India because such therapies are not permitted in their own countries. In closing, the author asks: how ethical is it for India to be investing in such technologies when it is unwilling to make investments in the health care needs of the majority of the population?Less
Surprisingly, despite more than twenty years of state investment, stem cell science in India remains at a very preliminary stage. In contrast, venture capital investments in stem cell science has surged ahead, matched in India by an unregulated nature of medical care in India. The author examines how patients with certain diseases are being offered speculative stem cell treatments in a number of cities in India. Additionally, she explores how a public policy–led growth of medical tourism has also facilitated the stem cell industry. Patients from abroad—the so-called therapeutic refugees—now come to India because such therapies are not permitted in their own countries. In closing, the author asks: how ethical is it for India to be investing in such technologies when it is unwilling to make investments in the health care needs of the majority of the population?
Ciara Staunton
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- May 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780719099465
- eISBN:
- 9781526104410
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Manchester University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7228/manchester/9780719099465.003.0011
- Subject:
- Sociology, Culture
This chapter discusses the legal and ethical issues that arise in regulating embryonic stem cell research in Ireland. It outlines three approaches Irish policy makers may take to the difficult ...
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This chapter discusses the legal and ethical issues that arise in regulating embryonic stem cell research in Ireland. It outlines three approaches Irish policy makers may take to the difficult ethical debate: a restrictive approach, a permissive approach or an intermediate approach. The chapter analyses the current status of embryonic stem cell research in Ireland. It argues that although the Irish courts seem to support the intermediate approach, the lack of legislative guidance has left the embryo without legal protection. The chapter advocates a national discussion on the status of the embryo in order to develop a regulatory framework that both protects the embryo and accommodates embryonic stem cell research.Less
This chapter discusses the legal and ethical issues that arise in regulating embryonic stem cell research in Ireland. It outlines three approaches Irish policy makers may take to the difficult ethical debate: a restrictive approach, a permissive approach or an intermediate approach. The chapter analyses the current status of embryonic stem cell research in Ireland. It argues that although the Irish courts seem to support the intermediate approach, the lack of legislative guidance has left the embryo without legal protection. The chapter advocates a national discussion on the status of the embryo in order to develop a regulatory framework that both protects the embryo and accommodates embryonic stem cell research.
Aaron D. Levine and Leslie E. Wolf
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- May 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199917907
- eISBN:
- 9780199332878
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199917907.003.0010
- Subject:
- Law, Medical Law
This chapter looks at travel aimed at accessing experimental stem cell therapies that may not be available or legal in the patient's home country, so-called “stem cell tourism.” It uses interviews ...
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This chapter looks at travel aimed at accessing experimental stem cell therapies that may not be available or legal in the patient's home country, so-called “stem cell tourism.” It uses interviews with ten patients who engaged in stem cell tourism. It first introduces the professional guidelines that are important to stem cell tourism, concentrating on guidelines from the American Medical Association (AMA) and from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). The AMA and ISSCR guidelines indicate that physicians are expected to have knowledge of stem cell-based medicine developments. The opinions of patients' physicians have also acted significantly in convincing patients to pursue the unproven stem cell-based interventions (SCBIs). It is then noted that different ways are needed to help prepare physicians to provide appropriate advice about alternative and unproven interventions.Less
This chapter looks at travel aimed at accessing experimental stem cell therapies that may not be available or legal in the patient's home country, so-called “stem cell tourism.” It uses interviews with ten patients who engaged in stem cell tourism. It first introduces the professional guidelines that are important to stem cell tourism, concentrating on guidelines from the American Medical Association (AMA) and from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). The AMA and ISSCR guidelines indicate that physicians are expected to have knowledge of stem cell-based medicine developments. The opinions of patients' physicians have also acted significantly in convincing patients to pursue the unproven stem cell-based interventions (SCBIs). It is then noted that different ways are needed to help prepare physicians to provide appropriate advice about alternative and unproven interventions.
Sheldon Krimsky
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- November 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780231167482
- eISBN:
- 9780231539401
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231167482.003.0002
- Subject:
- Biology, Bioethics
In this dialogue, Dr. Charles Walker, a stem cell biologist, and Dr. Rebecca Franklin are having a conversation about how stem cells differ from other cells. Walker is one of the nation's pioneers in ...
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In this dialogue, Dr. Charles Walker, a stem cell biologist, and Dr. Rebecca Franklin are having a conversation about how stem cells differ from other cells. Walker is one of the nation's pioneers in isolating, activating, and delivering embryonic stem cells to tissues in rodents. Franklin received her master's degree in bioethics and before she started her own career in stem cell research, she interviewed Walker in his laboratory for an article she was planning to write for a general audience, like her father who is suffering from thoracic spinal cord injury. Here they talk about blood stem cells; how scientists distinguish the different types of stem cells; the distinction between totipotent, pluripotent, and multipotent stem cells; how stem cells can replace diseased, damaged, or abnormal cells; stem cell signaling; and the health risks that arise when the stem cells are used to treat human disease, citing the case of bone marrow transplants involving hematopoietic stem cells.Less
In this dialogue, Dr. Charles Walker, a stem cell biologist, and Dr. Rebecca Franklin are having a conversation about how stem cells differ from other cells. Walker is one of the nation's pioneers in isolating, activating, and delivering embryonic stem cells to tissues in rodents. Franklin received her master's degree in bioethics and before she started her own career in stem cell research, she interviewed Walker in his laboratory for an article she was planning to write for a general audience, like her father who is suffering from thoracic spinal cord injury. Here they talk about blood stem cells; how scientists distinguish the different types of stem cells; the distinction between totipotent, pluripotent, and multipotent stem cells; how stem cells can replace diseased, damaged, or abnormal cells; stem cell signaling; and the health risks that arise when the stem cells are used to treat human disease, citing the case of bone marrow transplants involving hematopoietic stem cells.
J. Benjamin Hurlbut
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- January 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780231179546
- eISBN:
- 9780231542913
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231179546.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Bioethics
Chapter 7 examines the politics surrounding California’s stem cell ballot initiative. The chapter explores how the promise of cures derived from human embryonic stem cell research elicited accounts ...
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Chapter 7 examines the politics surrounding California’s stem cell ballot initiative. The chapter explores how the promise of cures derived from human embryonic stem cell research elicited accounts of citizenship and the public good that treated biomedical innovation as an unequivocal public good. The chapter examines how actors used this idea of innovation to construct science and public reason as allied, secular institutions, and critics of the initiative as injecting unwarranted, private religious perspectives into processes of democratic judgment.Less
Chapter 7 examines the politics surrounding California’s stem cell ballot initiative. The chapter explores how the promise of cures derived from human embryonic stem cell research elicited accounts of citizenship and the public good that treated biomedical innovation as an unequivocal public good. The chapter examines how actors used this idea of innovation to construct science and public reason as allied, secular institutions, and critics of the initiative as injecting unwarranted, private religious perspectives into processes of democratic judgment.
Sheldon Krimsky
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- November 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780231167482
- eISBN:
- 9780231539401
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231167482.003.0007
- Subject:
- Biology, Bioethics
In this dialogue, Dr. Rebecca Franklin and Catholic bioethicist Paul Flannery discuss the alternatives to destroying human embryos in order to acquire pluripotent stem cells. After President George ...
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In this dialogue, Dr. Rebecca Franklin and Catholic bioethicist Paul Flannery discuss the alternatives to destroying human embryos in order to acquire pluripotent stem cells. After President George W. Bush prohibited the use of public funds for embryo stem cell research, there remained deep divisions in public opinion on the issue of destroying embryos for harvesting embryonic stem cells. Some scientists became uncomfortable in their complicity with embryocide. In seeking alternatives, they considered working on deactivated embryos, in which critical genes had been removed to render the embryo incapable of implanting in the uterine wall. Flannery has been advocating against the use of live embryos. Franklin challenges his view and proposes keeping all research opportunities open to scientists, a policy she refers to as “stem cell pluralism.” Here they talk about the promise of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as an approach to stem cell development beyond the use of embryos; other methods of cell reprogramming; and the idea of creating an embryonic-like stem cell from a somatic cell.Less
In this dialogue, Dr. Rebecca Franklin and Catholic bioethicist Paul Flannery discuss the alternatives to destroying human embryos in order to acquire pluripotent stem cells. After President George W. Bush prohibited the use of public funds for embryo stem cell research, there remained deep divisions in public opinion on the issue of destroying embryos for harvesting embryonic stem cells. Some scientists became uncomfortable in their complicity with embryocide. In seeking alternatives, they considered working on deactivated embryos, in which critical genes had been removed to render the embryo incapable of implanting in the uterine wall. Flannery has been advocating against the use of live embryos. Franklin challenges his view and proposes keeping all research opportunities open to scientists, a policy she refers to as “stem cell pluralism.” Here they talk about the promise of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as an approach to stem cell development beyond the use of embryos; other methods of cell reprogramming; and the idea of creating an embryonic-like stem cell from a somatic cell.
