ES201 Pre-discussion Stem Cell Research 2/19/09

Stem cell research to me is a no brainer.We should pursue this research with a hope of one day effectively healing individuals with physical disabilities and permanent brain damage through the use of stem cells.I think when many people hear the phrase "stem cell research" they automatically assume that all stem cells are taken from developing human embryos and claiming that it's the same as murder.Individuals who believe that life begins at conception are against obtaining stem cells from developing human embryos claiming the human life has already began.I would have to agree in this particular case that a "blastocyst" or early human embryo in development is in fact a human life and to me destroying a blastocyst would be comprable to murder.But I also believe that stem cell research should occur because of the amazing ability of stem cells to grow into and fit into any cells in the human body healing areas with many dead cells.But stem cells should not be obtained through early human embryos but instead through adult bone marrow and umbilical cords at birth.These are both practical and safe ways to obtain stem cells for research and use without harming anyone or having any accusations of ending possible human life.I believe these methods should be pursued immediately in hope of learning more about stem cells and their healing capabilities and using them in a successful manner in the future.