Humanism: Use of Human Embryos Non-Religious Viewpoint 1 LI: I have learned about Humanist views on use of human embryos. I have evaluated Humanist views on use of human embryos. Success: I have completed notes on Christian views.

FOR Quality of Life Argument Research on embryos is the only way to study certain genetic conditions. If we can put certain genetic conditions right, then we should. This doesn't devalue people, but no-one would surely want to give birth to a child whose life would be one of constant pain or disadvantage if that could be avoided (quality of life). Some things in life are less desirable than others. We already 'play God' with nature every time we take a pill or accept medical treatment.

Embryo research is strictly regulated. Ruling out someone having a terrible genetic condition does not automatically lead to the creation of 'designer babies'. Embryo research is strictly regulated. This means that abuses of the technology won't happen. To end it all because someone might go too far doesn't make sense. The pre-embryo is not a person as we understand it. There is a difference between the use of a potential person and an actual one. A sperm or ovum is a potential person, but we don't regulate their treatment.

AGAINST The pre-embryo can't agree to being used for research so it is wrong to exploit it in this way. Using pre-embryos where they will be destroyed afterwards can't be right. Maybe adult stem cells or umbilical cords could be used instead. Altering the embryonic structure is 'playing God‘ or meddling with nature (sanctity of Life). It could also have harmful consequences, which might be unpredictable.

'slippery slope' 'problem of eugenics’ If we decide that one thing isn't desirable, what next - people who might not turn out to be very bright? who decides that certain characteristics in a developing person are 'desirable' and others 'undesirable'? What right does anyone have to make those kinds of decisions? This means that by genetic engineering we could create the world we want. Besides, gene therapy isn't treatment it is destroying what 'isn't desirable'.* 'problem of eugenics’ If we can change anything at the genetic level, what's to stop us creating only 'intelligent' people or 'beautiful' people? This would also mean that anything 'less than perfect' might be discarded. What kind of a world would that be?