Derivation of stem cells from human embryos: the principled arguments of potential donors and recipients |
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Authors: | Maureen Porter Valerie Peddie Carl Counsell Donald Pearson Siladitya Bhattacharya |
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Institution: | 1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Aberdeen , Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK m.a.porter@abdn.ac.uk;3. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Aberdeen , Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK;4. Division of Applied Health Sciences , University of Aberdeen , Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK;5. Department of Endocrinology , Aberdeen Royal Infirmary , Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK |
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Abstract: | Evidence is emerging that embryonic stem cells may have the potential to alleviate many debilitating conditions, but opinions remain polarized on the derivation of stem cells from human embryos obtained during in vitro fertilization treatment. The views of scientists, donors and unaffected members of the general public have been sought, but not those of patients likely to benefit. Semi-structured interviews were completed with 15 people living with Parkinson's disease, 15 with type I diabetes, 15 couples living with infertility and 21 members of the general public. In all four groups, religious, cultural and personal beliefs affected perceptions of the moral status of the embryo and the system of regulating science and scientists involved, overriding differences resulting from their status as potential beneficiaries or facilitators. Whether they came to the interview to defend or promote stem cell research, they cited the same four justifications (utilitarian, ecologic, moral duty and eugenic) but varied in their capacity to present a consistent argument. |
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Keywords: | stem cell research human embryos motivations qualitative |
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