On the ethical evaluation of stem cell research: remarks on a paper by N. Knoepffler

Kennedy Institute of Ethics Journal
Alfonso Gomez-Lobo

Abstract

This response to Nikolaus Knoepffler's paper in the same issue of the Journal agrees that if the arguments supporting the first two of the eight human embryonic stem cell research policy options discussed are unsound, as Knoepffler argues, then it seems natural to move to the increasingly permissive options. If the arguments are sound, however, then the more permissive options should be rejected. It is argued that three of the rejected arguments, taken together, constitute very good reasons to hold that a human embryo is endowed with dignity from fertilization onward. Thus, countries that want their public policies to match the moral imperative of respect for human beings should refrain from allowing destructive human embryo research and should devote considerable energy and public funds to research and clinical trials using non-embryonic ("adult") stem cells.

Citations

Feb 19, 2016·The Journal of Medicine and Philosophy·Shane Maxwell Wilkins
Feb 24, 2006·The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics : a Journal of the American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics·David DeGrazia

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