What Do We Make of the Stem Cell Debate?

Heather Zeiger — If science had a tabloid magazine, then stem cells would grace the cover. And much like the Hollywood celebrities, stem cells are at the center of controversy. How is a Christian to respond to conflicting reports and confusing science? In this article we will discuss the differences between adult and embryonic stem cells, look at some media myths, and evaluate the worldview issues behind the controversy.

First, let’s define stem cells. Stem cells are cells that serve as the body’s carpenters and mechanics to other cells. Their name comes from the stem of a plant. Think of a rose. From the stem grow the leaves, the thorns, and the flower. The flower does not produce leaves, nor do the thorns produce a flower, but the stem produces all of these things. However, the stem of the rose is still part of the plant. In the same way, stem cells are themselves cells and they produce other cells.

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MEET THE AUTHOR

HEATHER ZEIGER “Since 2001 stem cells have been a hot topic in science, the media, and politics. When I first started studying stem cells, I wanted to untangle the science findings from the popular hype. What I found was an over-emphasis on the promise of embryonic stem cells and a de-emphasis on the successes of adult stem cells. My program gives you the state of the stem cell controversy from a Christian perspective, and looks at the worldview issues behind the controversy.” Heather is a Research Associate for Probe. She earned a B.S. and M.S. in chemistry from the University of Texas at Dallas. Her interests involve science and culture issues, including bioethics, origins, and the environment. She is currently working on a M.A. in bioethics from Trinity International University.

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