CGS : November 29, 2007

November 29, 2007

The dramatic news that pluripotent human stem cells can be generated without having to destroy human embryos opens a new chapter in the politics of stem cell and other human genetic research.

We are now in a position to move beyond the polarized debate of the past decade and focus on ensuring that stem cell research moves forward, and that it is used in ways that promote rather than undermine social justice, equality and the common good.

CGS is working to bring these issues to the attention of critical constituencies and the broader public. Our commentaries on the new developments were published this week in the Los Angeles Times, San Jose Mercury News, San Francisco Chronicle and Washington Post.

These are important and exciting times for all who care about the responsible use and effective governance of the new human biotechnologies.

Beyond the Embryo FightA recent stem-cell breakthrough negates the need for research using human embryosby Richard Hayes, Los Angeles Times November 29th, 2007The debate over cloning embryos for stem cell research has been one of the most divisive and unpleasant public controversies of the last decade. Now we have a chance to put the cloning debate behind us.

Stem-Cell Science Outruns Political Debateby Marcy Darnovsky, San Jose Mercury NewsNovember 29th, 2007There's a right way and a wrong way to join politics and science; the stem-cell debate offers a prime example of how not to do it.

Undue Influence at the Stem Cell Instituteby Jesse Reynolds, San Francisco Chronicle November 29th, 2007Amid the coverage of major technical advances, an all-too-predictable scandal erupted in California's stem cell program. The details reveal improper and potentially illegal influence on the allocation of public funds by a CIRM board member.

Human Cloning Isn’t Monkey Businessby Osagie K. Obasogie, Genetic CrossroadsNovember 29th, 2007Rarely have science, politics, and international diplomacy converged as intensely as they have over the past few days.

Watson's Dark Visionby Marcy Darnovsky, Philadelphia InquirerNovember 29th, 2007Perhaps Watson's most important legacy will turn out to be as a counter-example: a demonstration of what not to do in order to use science for the good of humanity.

The Latest from Biopolitical TimesGenetic CrossroadsNovember 29th, 2007Here are some of the recent posts from CGS' blog, Biopolitical Times. We invite you to add Biopolitical Times to your Internet routines or RSS reader, and to weigh in with your own comments.

CGS in the NewsGenetic CrossroadsNovember 29th, 2007Citations of CGS in the Washington Post, Science, Christian Science Monitor, and more

Other NewsGenetic CrossroadsNovember 29th, 2007States Assess Breakthrough On Stem Cells, Company Offers Genome Assessments, Fertility Therapies Under the Microscope, and more

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