Ethical concerns over stem cell research

Re “Stem cell divide,” editorial, Aug. 24

The Times makes it seem as though the National Catholic Bioethics Center’s objection to the proposed technique in which one extracts a cell from an early stage embryo to obtain embryonic stem cells contradicts common sense. But it is standard principle in research ethics that those human beings who cannot give their informed consent also cannot be made the subject of research that only benefits others.

Great progress is being made in the effort to find ways of obtaining embryonic stem cells that do not compromise the life of the embryo. We want a solution to the present moral impasse as much as anyone else. We too want the science to move forward for the benefit of all, including the smallest and most vulnerable among us.

EDWARD J. FURTON

Ethicist, Director of Publications

National Catholic Bioethics Center

Philadelphia

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The recent breakthrough that may allow scientists to create human embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos may move stem cell conversations beyond the deliberative quagmire of abortion politics and embryos’ moral status. But it would be misguided to think that whether or not an embryo is destroyed marks the only ethical or social concern. Stem cell research may lead to therapies for devastating diseases. But will designer medicines premised on stem cell research be affordable to anyone other than the wealthy, particularly after California’s taxpayers invested nearly $6 billion in their development? How will researchers obtain the eggs necessary to pursue this research, and how will this affect women’s health? How can we oversee these technologies and their applications while ensuring that a growing industry with the keys to life’s building blocks acts in the public’s interest?

How embryos are treated with regard to stem cell research is unquestionably important. But equally important is how we treat each other.

OSAGIE OBASOGIE

Project Director

Center for Genetics and Society

Oakland