July 27, 2006

Abstract: - Many adults in the United States see no ethical dilemma in a specific type of scientific investigation, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 49 per cent of respondents believe stem cell research is not morally wrong.

- Many adults in the United States see no ethical dilemma in a specific type of scientific investigation, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 49 per cent of respondents believe stem cell research is not morally wrong.

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."

Bush explained his rationale, saying, "This bill would support the taking of innocent human life in the hope of finding medical benefits for others. It crosses a moral boundary that our decent society needs to respect, so I vetoed it. (...) We must also remember that embryonic stem cells come from human embryos that are destroyed for their cells. Each of these human embryos is a unique human life with inherent dignity and matchless value."

In more than five years in office, Bush had not vetoed a single bill.

Polling Data

Is stem cell research morally wrong?

Yes	26%
No	49%

Likelihood that embryonic stem cell research could lead to cure of previously incurable diseases

Very likely	42%
Somewhat likely	28%
Not very likely	11%
Not at all likely	5%

Source: Rasmussen Reports
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,000 American adults, conducted on Jul. 21 and Jul. 22, 2006. Margin of error is 3 per cent.