Should fetal tissue be employed in scientific research?
This question has moral, political, religious, and emotional nuances. When considered literally, however, we may be sure that fetal tissue will be used, since history shows that scientists will do what they think necessary to further their science. Indeed, the history of science is rejected with acts that were considered immoral and/or illegal for the times. One need only consider the fact that some physicians were performing abortions long before they were legalized.
The fetal tissue question might thus be better addressed by considering when the use of fetal tissue is unethical. The moral consideration here is not limited to the use of the fetus itself, but also to the experimental subject receiving such organs and tissues.
There is no fundamental moral concept that interdicts the use of fetal tissues. But today’s scientists need to understand and to consider the moral and...
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