English Commentary - Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Embryonic Stem Cell Research has always been a controversial topic. The very nature of the research, where embryos are harvested for use in developing medical advancements, will always attract its fair share of protesters and naysayers. However, I contend that the research of embryonic stem cells is justified.

Embryonic stem cell research is the road to numerous medical advances in the future. Notable researches have agreed that there are strong possible upsides to the research that will benefit mankind. This is echoed by the Singaporean Health Minister. Notable public figures such as Christopher Reeve and Michael J Fox have also come forward and endorsed embryonic stem cell research as the means to cure their diseases. The reason for this optimism is because stem cells can evolve into any type of body tissue. These converted tissue can become a part of the body. Such an effect can never be replicated by traditional drugs, and this is the reason why scientists look at stem cell research as the future of medical advancements.

The main debate on embryonic stem cell research is the fact that the research involves culling and converting embryo cells in laboratories. These people say that life starts at conception and that embryonic stem cell research is actually killing lives in the process of this research. Their mindset stems from deeply-rooted religious beliefs or a strong appreciation for human life. Naturally, they strongly oppose the idea of embryonic stem cell research, saying that no cure is worth 'destroying' a human life.

However, most of the embryos used in the research are leftover IVF embryos frozen in labs all over the world. These are 'created' from a Petri dish in a laboratory. One could also argue that embryos, not having the ability to feel or think, cannot be considered as a human life - at least, not yet.

It is true that the idea of utilizing embryos in research will always make some people uncomfortable. However, as President Obama points out, the choice of sound science and moral values is a false one. There is nothing that should be controversial about stem cell research. It is the doorway to much medical advancement, and continued research will certainly benefit mankind.