In today’s Wall Street Journal Adam Keiper reviews Human: The Science Behind What Makes Us Unique. (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121547414111533875.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries) Keiper says that author Michael S. Gazzaniga purports to argue that “modern neuroscience is on the brink of offering us real answers to these questions – answers more reliable and truthful than those that centuries of philosophy, religious tradition and literature have offered.” Yet, what is most interesting about the review is the concern Keiper raises at the conclusion of his column:
“More important, Mr. Gazzaniga does little to explore the implications of the research he describes. Once we have been armed with the latest scientific findings about how our brains came to be and how they function, how ought we to act?”
We find ourselves in that position today as a society. Embryonic stem-cell research, cloning, genetic engineering: all force us to consider the morality of “doing things just because we can”. We seem to have forgotten Immanuel Kant’s instruction to treat people as an end in themselves, and not as a means to an end. Using discarded embryos for research and cloning humans for the purpose of harvesting organs violate that piece of wisdom. And as we continue to make advancements in science there will be more opportunities for us to support whatever is viewed as “what’s best for society”. For ex, some insist that cures for terrible diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s will be found if we only support embryonic research. Catholics must stand firm, no matter the temptation, and reject this utilitarian approach to life. Our responsibility is to defend those who cannot defend themselves:
“Science and technology by their very nature require unconditional respect for fundamental moral criteria. They must be at the service of the human person, of his inalienable rights, of his true and integral good, in conformity with the plan and the will of God.” (Catechism 2294)
Oh, and one side note: Any medical advancements resulting from stem cell research were made from ADULT stem cells. There has not been a single case of embryonic stem cells resulting in any scientific breakthrough. The truth is that the science behind it is specious. The next time someone argues that more money should be spent on this research, ask them why more private donations are not being made to support it. If this science is the cure-all that some claim it is, then it would be a gold mine for investors. Yet, investors are staying away. That should tell you something.
Donald Tremblay
