Kant on Embryo R esearch

1. Kant on Embryo Research LMKE does not agree … KAITLYN AND BENITA

2. A Recap • Embryo Research is the result of doing something useful with spare embryos which are fertilised to maximise chances of pregnancy through IVF • The main issues that arise with embryo research are whether or not an embryo can be considered as a person with rights, and the right to life; the extent to which an embryo has the right to life and the morality of discarding it for research. • The benefits of embryo research come mainly from stem cell usage – it is hoped that stem cells can be stimulated to develop any tissue or organ of the human body. A cure for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's may be possible in the near future as a result of embryo research.

3. What would Kant say Kantian ethics uses three main principles to define a moral stance. They are called the categorical imperative… • Universalization – Before you act, ask yourself whether you would like everyone in the same situation to act the same way. If not, this creates contradiction. • Means and Ends – We should not exploit others or treat them as things to achieve an end. • Kingdom of Ends – Act as though you live in a world were people do not treat others as means but only as ends

4. Universalization Can’t be Universalised… Every women has the right to decide whether they want to donate their embryo for embryo research. This cannot be universalised as each situation differs due to opinion. Can be Universalised… Embryonic research could potentially cure diseases. Kant would say that it is the duty of humanity to contribute to the cause if they are given a chance. This can be done through donating their embryo. So it could be argued that this rule could be Universalised.

5. Means and Ends Means and Ends agrees… The woman decided whether she wants to donate her embryos. This means that she is not being used as a means to an ends because it is her decision. Means and Ends disagrees… Alternatively, it could be argued that embryo research is using the baby as a means to end as its stopping the chances of potentially life in order to save another. However, theirs is an argument on whether it is actually being used as an end due to the question on when life begins and when the embryo can be considered as a human.

6. Law Maker in Kingdom of Ends LMKE does not agree … When making law, everyone must agree to it because everyone is equal. This means that no one can be forced to donate embryos. LMKE agrees … Kant would argue that it may agree according to your definition of duty. Your duty could be to agree with the law due to covenant (if you believe in Christianity)and believe that your duty is to follow the laws in your land.

7. In conclusion Kant believed that for an ethical theory to work out, it needs to tell you what you should do in a situation. Kantian ethics is nothing to do with feelings, only DUTY. Overall Kant would not believe in embryonic research due to the fact it did not suffice the majority of the Categorical Imperatives Overall mainly We believe that Kantian ethics would disagree with embryo research as you cannot Universalise this tender topic because everyone has different opinions.