The embryonic stem cell debate, based on the hypothesis that personhood is bestowed at conception, has immutably polarised community opinion – especially when the Catholic Church is seen as promoting this view with religious fervour.
The glaring fact is that – despite intense research efforts – embryonic stem cells have not been able to claim a single cure whilst adult stem cells have dozens of proven successes.
Why deny millions of extra dollars to adult cell research (and delay further successes) by diverting funds to non-productive human embryonic research?
Veterinary researchers will continue to pursue the embryonic approach.
Common ground for debate is needed to enable politicians to rationally oppose embryonic stem cell research without appearing (to the other 75% of their constituents) to be swayed by the hierarchy of the Catholic Church.
We are not denying our moral stand by thinking and campaigning outside the square.
N.ROGERS
Ballina, NSW.
