Charlie, >Yes it sounded like I meant that the definition for being human included >usefulness to society and clearly I don't believe that. Thanks for the clarification, I would have been surprised indeed if you had meant it as written. I agree that the abortion issue is not a true PD topic as it has no direct impact on the issue of stem - cell research (Bob Martone's posting "pro -life and Foetal Tissue research" would seem to me to cover that argument comprehensively, so I'll tack on a "me too" and leave it at that). However, I would very much like to continue our exchange of views on the abortion issue so, unless you indicate to the contrary, I will contact you off list in a couple of days or so. Dennis. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Dennis Greene 49/onset 32 /dx 37 "It is better to be a crystal and be broken, Than to be a perfect tile upon the housetop." [log in to unmask] http://members.networx.net.au/~dennisg/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++