The Ethical Ramifications of Human Cloning

Abstract

Daniella Hernandez

English 1102H/K.Redding

Panel Research Proposal

26 February 2016

Ethical Ramifications of Human Cloning

One of the key factors of humanity, the essence of what separates man from animal, is progress. Man must always move forward; man must always advance. Advancement, whether it be medically, technologically, or scientifically is a core foundation of society today. Many of the scientific and medical achievements of the last twenty years have been phenomenal breakthroughs that have benefited humans in a substantial way. For example, scientists completed a draft sequencing the human genome, skin and face transplants have been successfully administered, and bionic limbs are improving exponentially with each passing year. One idea in the midst of this surge of advancement is the prospect of cloning humans. However, at the rate technology is progressing, it is highly likely that the possibility of cloning a human can be feasible soon.

Although cloning a human would be claimed a revolutionary breakthrough contributing to science and progress, what cost would really be being paid? I plan to use pieces of literature such as The House of the Scorpion and Frankenstein to demonstrate the many ethical ramifications that would arise with the life that scientists would, essentially, be creating. Some of these consequences include the death and harm of thousands of potential mistrials; as well as serious and severe health problems for clones that did survive. A clone, theoretically, would be a child with no lineage, parents, or place in this world. Furthermore, cloning humans would be creating life, and I believe that no man should have that right or power.