The Controversy of Cloning
Many people have many different opinions on cloning. In July 2001, the House of Representatives banned all forms of human cloning. However, the Senate had not voted yet. However, the US cannot influence other countries' decisions of whether or not to allow cloning.
Against Cloning
Former President Bush is one example of people against cloning. When he was president, he spoke out against cloning. Two examples of quotes he said are the following: "No human life should be extinguished or exploited for another. Life is a creation, not a commodity," and, "Advances in biomedical technology must never come and the expense of human conscience." When the cloned embryo is created, there are two options for it. It can either be put in a woman to grow and be born, or it can have its stem cells removed. The removal of the stem cells kills the embryo. President Bush argued that it is wrong to clone people just for body parts. Also, it is not clear whether cloning would benefit the medical community or not.
Below: Picture of President Bush from PBS Newshour
Below: Picture of President Bush from PBS Newshour
For Cloning
Some people believe that cloning is fine because it could enhance medical science and get rid of some diseases. Tom Daschle, the former majority leader of the Senate, says President Bush "needs to allow science and research to cure disease." Finally, it is argued that a total ban of cloning would have a major negative effect on scientific research.
Below: Picture of Tom Daschle from Wikipedia
Below: Picture of Tom Daschle from Wikipedia