(Angus Reid Global Scan) - Most adults in the United States are opposed to the creation of genetically identical human beings, according to a poll by International Communications Research for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. 84.3 per cent of respondents believe scientists should not be allowed to use human cloning to try to create children for infertile couples.

On May 19, South Korean researchers Hwang Woo-suk and Moon Shin-yong revealed they had used the method of therapeutic cloning to produce 11 embryonic human stem cell lines that are actual genetic matches of patients.

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.

In August 2001, U.S. president George W. Bush cited ethical questions in his rationale to ban federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. On May 20, Bush discussed the South Korean discovery, saying, "I worry about a world in which cloning becomes acceptable." 77.4 per cent of respondents reject human cloning to try to create a supply of human embryos that would be used for medical research.

Polling Data

Should scientists be allowed to use human cloning to try to create children for infertile couples?

Should scientists be allowed to use human cloning to create a supply of human embryos to be destroyed in medical research?

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