Posted by
EFuller on Sunday, October 22, 2006 3:08:38 PM
Discussing MO’s Embryonic Stem Cell Amendment
A fictional conversation on Missouri’s Amendment 2, which would use state funds for embryonic stem cell research.
The conversation at lunch turned. Tom asked, “What do you think about Amendment 2?”
“Well, I’d find it very hard to vote against cures for the sick,” replied Bob. “But I’ll find it very easy to vote ‘no’ on Amendment 2.”
“What? I thought you just said you’d find it hard to vote against cures.”
“That’s the point,” said Bob. “I’m not voting against cures, I’m voting against wasting money.”
Tom looked puzzled. “What are you talking about? Cures are not a waste of money.”
“Look, we’ve been researching stem cells for over twenty years. How many treatments have been developed from embryonic stem cells?” asked Bob.
“Several, I guess.”
“Zero. In over twenty years, embryonic stem cells have yielded no treatments. Not even a clinical trial. Do you know how many treatments have been developed from adult stem cells and umbilical cord stem cells?”
“No.”
“Over 60 treatments and over 1,000 clinical trials. That’s why most of the private investment is going into adult stem cell research.”
“But everyone says embryonic stem cells have such promise,” objected Tom. “They just need more time and money to cure spinal cord injuries, cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s and more.”
“Don’t you think researchers angling for taxpayer funds will promise great things?”
“Well…”
“Look,” Bob continued. “If private money is investing in adult stem cells – which have delivered cures, why should my tax dollars go for research on embryonic stem cells – research which has questionable promise and questionable ethics?”
“But, they say it will provide cures.”
“Listen to the ads. The say it could provide cures. What they don’t tell you is the lack of results in over twenty years of research.”
“So, it really is about the money,” said Tom.
“You got that right.”
More information on Amendment 2