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This
film provides two completely different points of view in heated
debate:
Supporters argue it is our moral duty to pursue scientific progress
that provides healing and hope for humanity. Detractors argue
the ends do not justify the means in harvesting some human life to save
others.
The question might just come down to
"who do you entrust with
the power to re-invent mankind?"
"LINES THAT DIVIDE"
First, the viewer is introduced to the basic
science of stem cells and how they are gathered for medical use.
Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells are both explained along with
their similarities, differences and methods of procurement. Scientific
issues are examined, such as the benefits, drawbacks, and scientific
and medical results of both.
The documentary also introduces the moral
issues being argued in the public square – issues of human life
and the medical utilization of embryos, as well as women’s health
issues that arise from the procurement of eggs used in much of the
research. Scientists, doctors and ethicists on both sides weigh in with
their views.
One of the solutions to achieving the mass
amount of stem cell lines needed for this burgeoning stem cell industry
is cloning. The documentary examines cloning, what it is, what it
isn’t, as well as the current scientific, moral and political
issues surrounding this volatile issue in the debate.
Lastly, the film looks at the horizon of
scientific and medical research in stem cells. New and alternate forms
of creating or accumulating stem cells seem to be making breakthroughs
monthly around the world as scientists explore the vistas of
possibilities, while seeking to address the ethical issues surrounding
the lines that divide.
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