why is there controversy over the use of stem cells?

Answer 1

Basically because people will never be able to agree on the point that human life starts.

If you feel that human life starts at conception the only way to get stem cells is by killing human beings.

If you feel that life begins at some later point you don't feel that getting stem cells involves killing human beings, and the potential benefits to mankind are justified.

Nearly all stem cells are harvested from frozen embryos generated by fertilization clinics. When in vitro fertilization is performed, many excess embryos are generated. These embryos are either destoyed or stored indefinitely in a freezer.

Answer 2

Stem Cells are typically taken from a fetus, usually aborted. Stem Cells are human cells very early on in growth and can be easily manipulated. Combining stem cells with healthy mature cells will create more healthy cells. Once cells have matured it is nearly impossible to change their structure with out destroying them which is why stem cells are an important tool for research of cellular deficiencies such as MS and Downs.

Answer 3

Mainly because some people have a theological objection. Stem cells are considered by them to be people with as much right to life as any other human being. To a scientist this is just nonsense and will slow down research into finding cures for many degenerative diseases.

Answer 4

The controversy is purely religious.Some people believe that a 6-12 cell embryo is a human being,and should not be touched.Other,more enlightened people,belive we need these un differated cell to create any organ or muscle group to help people overcome disease and other medical conditions.Potential life is not life.

Answer 5

There can be ignorance on the part of those whom appose stem cell research. A cell can be from a grown person or from undeveloped fetus. they both have a different purpose for research's.
For instance, you can take a cell from another part of your body to help regenerate the injury; or you can take it from a fetus and it will take more effort for a match. Either way the research should continue. People should not let religion dictate our science.