Posted by
brad on Wednesday, August 30, 2006 10:35:03 AM
Stem cell researchers are almost irrationally focused on their desire to do research on human lab rats, otherwise known as embryonic stem cells. The rationalization of ‘searching for cures’ continues in the face of mounting evidence that ESCs may never produce cures.
Legitimate research objectives do lie behind this false front but these objectives can be addressed without using human lab rats. In fact at this stage of scientists’ very limited knowledge of stem cells the real search is for a basic understanding of how they differentiate, what signals they use, where these signals come from, and many other very basic questions. Since these biological processes are basically the same in humans, sheep (See ‘After Dolly’), and flatworms, these processes can be researched just as well, and in many respects better, in these and other species.
In fact a recent announcement from Australia has plant researchers creating plant clones using stem cells just like ESCs. Even daffodils can answer some of these basic questions! Why do researchers insist on killing human beings?