Devry University | The Social Implications of Stem Cell Research | How Stem Cell Science Affects Society | | David Gaudette | 4/9/2010 |

For the sake of clarification, I will use a general definition of stem cell research for the basis of this paper. From the journals, books, and academic articles I have read in order to gather the information needed to write about this subject, I have come to the conclusion that the general purpose of stem cell research is to further the understanding of stem cells in order to develop ways to grow or modify them for medical purposes in which to reduce the suffering of people with disabling diseases or conditions. |

David Gaudette
Humanities 432
Burke Bowden
March 28, 2010

Social Implications of Stem Cell Research
The topic of stem cell research has always been scrutinized and hotly debated regarding the legal, ethical, and social implications that are associated with the studies and research methods being performed by scientists around the world. The purpose of this paper is to look closely at the social implications of stem cell research, and briefly explain and identify the effects it has on society and culture.
The scientific study of stem cells has affected people in many different ways. There are various treatments and therapies derived from stem cell research that have changed the lives of many people around the world. For example, due to the continuing efforts of the scientific community, patients with disabling diseases or conditions now have alternative treatments and therapies, physicians have less difficulty diagnosing and treating these patients, and scientists have a better understanding of certain diseases and conditions, enabling them to move forward in their research.
Stem cell research, and the technology resulting from it, can provide alternative treatments which, not only can lead to