PHLB09H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 9: Embryonic Stem Cell, Prenatal Diagnosis, Gene Therapy
Document Summary
Moral controversy over embryonic stem cells is their source (embryos) which are destroyed in the process of retrieving them. Majority of embryos are produced through ivf and leftover blastocyst ar frozen and the ones not implanted/discarded are used to produce stem cells. Is it morally permissible to destroy human embryos in search for cures? o. Read over stem cells p. 552 & classic case file: the kingsburys p 555. Likely to favor genetic testing and gene therapy to promote general welfare. Testing providing useful info about peoples genetic risks are beneficial if overall benefits outweigh costs that can result from misleading test results, genetic discrimination and breeches of doctor-patient confidentiality. Positive eugenics is probably favored in balance if it increases human happiness and ends suffering would probably sanction the therapeutic use of embryonic stem cells (derived from any source) as long as there was a benefit to society.
