Why are governments hesitant to fund stem cell research?



  1. 0 Votes

    Governments are hesitant to fund stem cell research because it is a controversial issue, which means that constituents (voters) will be split on the decision.  Politicians like votes, so there is some conflict in terms of keeping conservative voters happy.  People who oppose stem cell research usually do so on moral or religious grounds; they believe that human life begins at conception and that taking embryonic cells (stem cells) is akin to murder.  Although stem cell research could contribute to saving many lives, governments tread carefully around the issue because of its controversial nature.

  2. 0 Votes

    Another barrier to stem cell research are the risks researchers and scientists themselves face.  As mentioned, stem cell research is a controversial topic and bounded by many different regulations varying from region to region, so scientists are less likely to collaborate with each other. Also, their reputation and prestige are at risk because of the large number of people opposing stem cell research.

  3. 0 Votes

    Stem cells and stem cell research is seen as a “touchy” subject because of the wide range of opinions that it employs.  Perhaps, a huge basis for the case against stem cell research, and why governments may be hesitant to fund such studies, can be traced to the ethics and morality that the case brings into question.  One large factor is that governements, and the people behind them, may feel that an embryo is a jusifiable life and therefore its intended research may be immoral based on that idea. 

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