Some see any fertilized egg as a predeveloped human being. They oppose any experiementation on these eggs even if they're going to be discarded. Of course, other people disagree. However, it seems some people's opinion counts for more than others.
From what I've heard and read, there appear to be three different sources for stem cells: embryos, umbilical cord blood, and adults. Only the embryotic stem cells are controversial. From all I've read, adult stem cells might not be as good but the umbilical stem cells are supposedly very good.
Some will also argue that government sponsored research like this is just another form of corporate welfare. I believe they have a point. If stem cells have such monumental potential, why aren't the drug companies funding their own research? The fact is, they are funding a lot of their own research so why does the government have to get involved.
I have to wonder is we aren't all being fed a lot of hype over stem cells. I can see their potential but it does sound like this is being oversold. I heard someone tell Congress last week that stem cells might help "100 million Americans". Are they seriously claiming that one out of every 2.8 Americans have such serious medical problems? I find that hard to believe.
Furthermore, I read of some early stem cell experiments on humans. If I remember correctly, the case I heard about involved people with Parkinson's disease. The stem cells actually made them worse, far worse off than they were before the experiment.
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There are differing views