Dolly scientist can now clone humans: Is it ethical?

[Editor]

Dr. Ian Wilmut, the one who had cloned the first sheep famously known as 'Dolly' has got the permission to clone humans embryos.

Though there has been a major debate as to the pros and cons of cloning in general, Dr. Ian Wilmut of the Roslin Research Institute, Edinburgh is doing it for a major cause, and thus he got the license. He, along with his team of doctors, plans to clone embryos to study a disease known as motor neuron disease (MND). This disease leads to loss of muscle function, because of nerve failure. The person suffering from the disease dies within five years from the first appearance of the symptoms.

We, at GutFeel.com, have already discussed the ethical issues pertaining to the stem cell research. Refer to the following thread: http://www.gutfeel.com/forum/about134.html

IMO, the research carried out by Dr. Wilmut should be encouraged, so that people who suffer from motor neuron disease can have a sigh of relief, or the severity of the disease can be controlled.

What is your viewpoint on the issue?

[Matt]

In US, there has been inhibitions on this issue. Here as far as i know, they are permitting research on only those stem cells which are not embryonic.

Thus this license granted to Dr Wilmut in Britain is a risk in this direction. This might also raise hopes of those who want to use technological progress to establish their dubious motives. But my gutfeel is that if the research works out in the right direction and a cure is developed for MND, then cloning humans would be a blessing in disguise.

[Editor]

That's what i feel Matt, that such projects should be encouraged but under strict supervision that they are working in the right direction. There sure will be people as you said who can take advantage of the technology to achieve their motives, but with a little effort, these things can be checked for the benefit of those who suffer from life-threathening diseases. Wouldn't it be worth the effort