The Stem Cell Controversy: Debating the Issues (Contemporary Issues (Prometheus))

Editor-Michael Ruse; Editor-Christopher A. Pynes

ISBN 10: 1591020301 / ISBN 13: 9781591020301

Published by Prometheus Books, 2003

About this Item

Book is in very good condition, with minor wear to cover and edges. Two yellow highlights inside. Book lies flat, and inside pages are (otherwise) clean.

Seller Inventory # 070911013

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Stem Cell Controversy: Debating the Issues (Contemporary Issues (Prometheus))
• Publisher: Prometheus Books
• Publication Date: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1591020301
• ISBN 13: 9781591020301
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Very Good
• Weight: 15 ounces

About this title

Synopsis

Recent advances in medical research have shown that embryonic stem cells can be used to treat some of the most debilitating diseases, notably Parkinson's disease, spinal injuries, and nerve cell damage. Yet the troubling ethical downside of this promising technology is that up till now the main source of stem cells has been tissue taken from aborted fetuses. This practice has raised sharp criticisms from opponents of abortion who charge that science is capitalizing on an abhorrent procedure. Proponents of stem cell research argue that scientists are making legitimate use of already aborted fetuses and it is unfair to deprive those suffering from serious diseases and injuries of a potentially revolutionary therapy. The issue became so divisive that in August 2001, President Bush addressed the nation on new developments in stem cell research and the ethical dilemmas this technology poses. Should such research be permitted? What, if any, moral, religious or political objections might be raised?

Philosophers Michael Ruse and Christopher A. Pynes have compiled this valuable collection of articles by noted experts to address all aspects of this question by examining one of today's most challenging and fiercely debated new areas of science. They explain the scientific research, explore the medical promise that it offers, and present the many sides of the ethical, religious, and policy debate. The contributors--scientists, medical practitioners, philosophers, theologicans, historians, and policy analysts--offer a variety of perspectives, to give readers the critical tools they need to shape an informed position on the topic. This important resource will be useful and accessible to educated readers with no prior knowledge of this contentious issue.

About the Author

Michael Ruse is the Lucyle T. Werkmeister Professor of Philosophy at Florida State University and the author or editor of CLONING: RESPONSIBLE SCIENCE OR TECHNOMADNESS; GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS; TAKING DARWIN SERIOUSLY; PHILOSOPHY OF BIOLOGY; and BUT IS IT SCIENCE?

Christopher A. Pynes is an instructor and the undergraduate advisor for the Department of Philosophy at Florida State University.