​StemCells
Your Task
Things to Consider:
- What is the importance of having federally funded research?
- Why did President Obama lift the restrictions on stem cells?
- Discuss both sides of the issue. The Prime Minister must know the benefits and risks of stem cell research.
- What are induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells?
- Consider the set of ethical dilemmas that come along with using iPS cells
- How could stem cells affect the procedures of pharmaceutical drug testing?
- When does life begin? Is it at the moment of fertilization or at some point during the development in the womb or at birth?
- Would destroying potential human life be justified if it could cure the illnesses of millions of people?
*You do not need to answer all of these questions; these are just a guide.
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Stem cell research has been heavily debated since 1998, when scientists discovered a way to remove stem cells from a human embryo. In 2001, former U.S president George W. Bush restricted federal funding to stem cell research, on the basis that the destruction of a potential life form would not be justified, no matter the benefits that may arise. However, current president Barack Obama lifted this ban in 2009, stating that with proper guidelines and strict enforcement, the risks associated with use of stem cells can be avoided.
You have been selected to be the expert group by Stephen Harper, the Prime Minister of Canada, to decide whether or not stem cell research should be federally funded in Canada. You must consider both sides of the argument to ensure a strong justification of your decision, in order for the Prime Minister to explain to the nation the decision of your group without major backlash from its citizens. Use the given resources to help with your research, as well as any others you find that you deem to be reliable and important in developing and defending your position. Choose a creative method of presentation (PowerPoint, Prezi, poster, brochure, video, etc.) to deliver your decision and justifications to the Prime Minister (the class). You must make a list of references, in any format at the end (if you're doing a video or something similar, please make a paper copy to hand in). You will have 2 classes for research, 1 class to organize and create your presentation and 10-12 minutes to present the following day.
You must include these 5 sections in your presentation. Other than the references that must be at the end, the order of these sections is up to your group; whichever way your group believes your presentation needs to be ordered, in order to ensure a logical flow of ideas.
1. Introduction
2. Benefits and Risks of Stem Cells
3. Ethical Considerations
4. Your Group's Decision
5. References