أخلاقيات أبحاث الخلايا الجذعية الجنينية : دراسة مقارنة

Abstract EN

The use of human embryos for research on embryonic stem cells (ES) is an issue of high debates in the ethical agenda in many countries.

Despite the potential benefit of using embryonic stem cells in the treatment of disease, their use remains controversial because of their derivation from early embryos.

We address in this work some of the ethical issues surrounding the use of human embryos cells based on research about the development of stem cell and transplantation therapy.

In fact, the embryonic stem cell research poses a moral problem, as it brings into tension two fundamental moral principles: the duty to prevent or alleviate suffering, and the duty to respect the value of human life.

The harvesting of human embryonic stem cells violates this second duty, as it results in the destruction of a possible human life.

The question then is which principle ought to be given precedence in this conflicting situation.

In other words, should we give more weight to the first, and permit destructive embryonic stem cell research because of its potential benefits? The aim of stem cell research (to cure diseases and relieve suffering) is universally recognized as a good aim, or should we give more weight to the second, and prohibit destructive embryonic research, because it violates respect for the value of the embryo as the very beginning of a possible human life.