- Many adults in the United States think a specific type of scientific investigation should continue, according to a poll by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press. 56 per cent of respondents believe it is more important to conduct stem cell research that might result in new medical cures.

Conversely, 32 per cent of respondents prefer not to destroy the potential life of human embryos involved in this research.

Human stem cells come from embryos left over from in-vitro fertilization, which are habitually destroyed. These cells can develop into various tissues in the human body. Some scientists believe the research could be useful in the creation of new organs and in the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. 60 per cent of respondents believe embryonic stem cell research will likely lead to cures.

In August 2001, U.S. president George W. Bush cited ethical questions in his rationale to ban federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. In a nationally televised statement, Bush said, "While we're all hopeful about the potential of this research, no one can be certain that the science will live up to the hope it has generated."

On Jul. 19, Bush vetoed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005, which had been approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate, and sought to allow federal funding for embryonic stem cell research on cells "derived from human embryos that have been donated from in-vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of fertility treatment, and were in excess of the clinical need of the individuals seeking such treatment." In more than five years in office, Bush had not vetoed a single bill.

Earlier this month, Democratic Nevada senator Harry Reid—the Senate minority leader—said the upper house would seek to override the veto next year, saying, "We're going to be able to do this. We know the potential. Why should we have to wait until there's a new president?" In order to effectively reverse the veto, 67 senators must support the bill.

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All in all, which is more important?

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