Abstract

KIE: Warnock's article is based on a lecture she delivered at a St. Catherine's College seminar, and Gaffin summarizes the discussion that followed. Warnock focuses on the second part of the report of the committee she chaired, namely the recommendations to the British government regarding limits to and statutory regulation of research on human embryos. She summarizes the arguments of the proponents and opponents, centering on the moral status of the embryo, the benefits to medicine of embryo research, and the possible erosion of the constraints recommended by the committee. The audience discussion revealed concerns about the status of the embryo and the danger that public suspicion of scientific research could result in support for proposed legislation that would prohibit all research on embryos and in vitro fertilization.