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On 3 Sep 2004 at 22:11, KF Etzold wrote: > Dr. Fink; > > I am disappointed by the somewhat insulting tone of your note. First > of all you seem to have trouble distinguishing the difference between > inanimate matter and living things. Second, my note was not meant > justify murder but rather point out in a philosophical way the destiny > of living things as opposed to the fate of molecules organic or > otherwise. So perhaps it would behoove you to provide an accurate > definition of life, death and murder of many different types of living > things. One other question: What is cell division? > > My original note was intended to have dialogue on living things, > instead you chose the most narrow view one could take. > > K. F. Etzold cg Carline I understand your position quite well. It is my opinion that there are two classes of "living things" when it comes to medical research. There are humans and non-humans. One can (as long as one follows "humane" guidelines) employ non-human life in such research without getting "consent" of the subjects (since they, presumably cannot give rational consent); but, in the case of human beings, the rules are different. This disjunction (between human and non-human) may be proper, or it may not be. To use a cell or group of cells which have a complete nucleus of human components, including human DNA, is, in my opinion, the use of a human being. I do not consider a sperm cell or an egg cell to be a complete human being (and so, I do not object to contraception which prevents the union of ovum and sperm), but once a zygote has been formed (and perhaps implanted), such is a human being and thus is entitled to all of the rights of a human being. In today's research atmosphere, the subject of stem cell research has become a highly-politicized issue. We do not have proof (as of yet) that stem cells are of any value whatsoever in the host of diseases for which they are touted (the big push with Alzheimer's disease is an example), and those of us who believe that zygotes are human beings are being intensely disrespected by others who, perhaps jaded by our current attitudes towards "abortion on demand", look upon embryonic stem cell work as working with a "blob of tissue". The abortionists call the babies who are aborted (often right up until term) "products of conception". Although I would want the best treatment for any loved one of mine who had Parkinson's disease (the one who I had eventually died of his disease), I would not countenance the killing of another human being in order to prolong the life of my family member (or myself). Best, Bob Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S., P. C. Neurological Surgery 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, CA 94704-2636 USA 510-849-2555 FAX: 510-849-2557 <http://www.rafink.com/> "Ex Tristitia Virtus" Disclaimer: That which is written in my e-mail is not to be considered as "medical advice". Such advice can only be given after a formal, in-person, consultation between doctor and patient. ********************************************** ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn