Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Ethical Views of Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic Leaders in Malaysia

Abstract

Embryonic Stem Cell Research (ESCR) raises ethical issues. In the process of research, embryos may be destroyed and, to some, such an act entails the 'killing of human life'. Past studies have sought the views of scientists and the general public on the ethics of ESCR. This study, however, explores multi-faith ethical viewpoints, in particular, those of Buddhists, Hindus and Catholics in Malaysia, on ESCR. Responses were gathered via semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Three main ethical quandaries emerged from the data: (1) sanctity of life, (2) do no harm, and (3) 'intention' of the research. Concerns regarding the sanctity of life are directed at particular research protocols which interfere with religious notions of human ensoulment and early consciousness. The principle of 'do no harm' which is closely related to ahimsa prohibits all acts of violence. Responses obtained indicate that respondents either discourage research that inflicts harm on living entities or allow ESCR with reservations. 'Intention' of the research seems to be an interesting and viable rationale that would permit ESCR for the Buddhists and Hindus. Research that is intended for the purpose of alleviating human suffering is seen as being ethical. This study also notes that Catholics oppose ESCR on the basis of the inviolability of human life.

Factors Associated with Intention to Donate Hematopoietic Stem Cells among Blood Donors

“…While some may know the purpose of HSC donation, they would still be concerned about whether the overall idea of HSC donation is against their religious beliefs or personal ethical views. The interviews with Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic leaders in Malaysia regarding their ethical views towards human embryonic stem cell research revealed contrasting ethical views among them [25]. Although the ongoing de- a Variables with p value <0.200 in univariate analysis were included into the multivariate model using enter method.…”

Myt1l induced direct reprogramming of pericytes into cholinergic neurons

“…Emerging studies have suggested that stem cell‐based therapies may be a new intervention for neurodegenerative diseases . The success of stem cell therapy may largely depend on high‐efficient supply of desired functional cell types . However, the limited supply of required stem cells, low‐efficient conversion technologies, unstable genetic manipulation, and complex ethical controversies are the main challenges in the field .…”

Attitudes and values among the Swedish general public to using human embryonic stem cells for medical treatment

“…The different standpoints reflected different views on the moral value of the embryo, and whether the benefit is more important than the harm. They also found different reflections from leaders from the same religion, expect the Catholic leaders, who repeated the same message as formulated by the Vatican [ 17 ].…”

“…The respondents were most positive about donation for treatment with embryonic stem cells (73.6%), while 63.8% would donate to heterosexual couples for reproductive purposes, and 45.1% to single women [ 16 ], indicating that the purpose of donation matters for people’s attitudes. The source of the embryo, either being surplus of created for research purpose, also matters for peoples attitude for usage [ 17 ]. In a qualitative study from 2022 with members of the Swedish general population, the participants had a positive attitude toward using embryonic stem cells to treat PD; however, they raised several conditions under which the treatment should be allowed [ 18 ].…”