stem cell research - information update only

January 16, 2005

From Medical News Today 16 Jan 2005

What are we to think about embryonic stem cell research? - Seeking Information

and Consensus

The Center for Practical Bioethics convened a national roundtable on stem cell

research January 14 in Kansas City. Participants included national and

international experts representing government, leading academic centers in the

United States and the United Kingdom, bioethicists and the medical and legal

professions.

The agenda included an examination of scientific and ethical issues, a review of

policymaking around embryonic stem cell research in California and the United

Kingdom, and a discussion of efforts by the National Academy of Sciences to

address this controversial issue.

At the end of the day, participants were asked “upon what can we agree?” Judge

Waxse, moderator for the day's discussion, pointed out both common ground

and areas of consensus:

-- Language matters -- there needs to be more clarity and a common understanding

about the science and technology of stem cell research, even among scientists.

-- Improve dissemination of known information - better understanding can be

advanced by improving distribution of known information on stem cell research.

-- A rigorous debate is required - there is no simple answer. All perspectives

should be considered with respect, even among those who disagree. This may not

lead to agreement, but it will lead to better understanding.

-- Social policy and politics a difficult mix - The establishment of social

policy on a conflicted issue such as this is best served through informed

policymakers and legislators and a well-educated public.

The day-long session launched the Center's Science and Ethics Literacy Project,

a two-year initiative designed to promote informed policymaking at the state

level and to increase science and ethics literacy across the United States. A

policy brief based on the national roundtable will be published in March, with a

public forum set for late April in Kansas City.

Founded in 1984, the Center for Practical Bioethics is an independent

organization nationally recognized for its work in practical bioethics. More

than a think tank, the Center puts theory into action to help people and

organizations find real-world solutions to complex issues in health and

healthcare.

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