This is one of those times I really wish I knew more about stem-cell research. Also wish I had a good opinion on the matter. Unfortunately, it really is not "table talk" around my circle and haven't really been following the controversy behind it.

I know in general it is a religious v. scientific arguement (shocking !)..

My un-informed opinion is, GO FOR IT..
If using cow cells can help save lives and cure disease, who are we to say it is or is not right. If anyone of us had the disease (like Parkinsons or Alzheimers) I am sure we would be wishing for a cure that this might bring.

And animals (and robots/machines for that matter) have been mixing with the human species for a very long time now. Haven't there been humans who have had animal hearts (like cows and pigs) in transplant operations? And Insulin, doesn't that come from pigs? even the pace maker was controversial at one time -- And at the most basic level, since most of us are meat eaters and that turns into blood and nurishment for our bodies (that get passed down to our sperm, eggs, embroyo's, fetus, etc.) Isn't that "mixing" going on anyway?

-- Just my thoughts..

-and, every doctor who performs surgery and takes one organ from a donor and gives it to someone in need is "playing god". I am not saying that they should have "carte blanche" but this doesn't seem to far out there, especially if it can really help millions and millions of people.

B

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"When two people agree on everything, one of them is not necessary" - Arliss