Archive for March, 2009

The president recently signed a bill to allow funding for stem cell research. The bill opened the door for scientists to use the hundreds of embryos destined for dumpsters behind clinics for studying. I am confused by the vehement opposition to this type of research. Isn’t the potential development of a cure for cancer or blindness a more virtuous purpose for those cells headed to the trash?

We might be a long way from the paralyzed taking their first steps, but then again, we might not. Nothing proves more promising to reaching these goals than stem cell research, including the embryionic type.

You know, the same people that oppose stem cell research for moral or religious beliefs, see no problem with the reason this surplus of embryos exists; Doctors “making” babies. If the belief is that life and death are truely the will of God (any God you choose), then pregnancy should not result from scientific interference including invetro and fertility drugs.

But, this double-standard is pervasive in the issue of life. If life and death are truely God’s will (or a natural process), then Terry Schiavo should have died 15 years before she actually did. However, lifers were out in full force fighting for her scientifically-controlled existence.

The bottom line is that there is a lot of gray area in this issue. As uncomfortable as some scientific research might make some, it may improve the lives of many who are suffering. In fact, as scientific discoveries continue proving to us every day, it does and will continue to improve the lives of the living.

Every one is entitled to their own moral judgement and religious (or non-religious) beliefs. You and your loved ones (or any other person) are not being hurt by this research. In fact, it is likely that someone you love will benefit from the findings someday.

“If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be.” – Thomas Jefferson

A new poll found that 1/3 of Americans could not name the three branches of government, but 3/4 could name an American Idol judge.

There is such an element of fear in our society that I could write three posts a day and never cover it all. Why are we afraid? What aren’t we afraid of?

Every day the news tells us about the crime in our communities; the kidnappings, the murders, the accidents, and everything in between. Many Americans only get their news from TV. TV news is built for profit. Built for sensationalism because it sells. Would it really be as interesting if they reported that everything was good, and all those “rates” were dropping?

Well, for starters telling you that crime rates were dropping or leveling off would be speaking the truth. Since the 1980’s, violent crime rates have consistently gone down or remained the same, even when population growth is taken into consideration. Have a look for yourself – Go to www.census.gov, and search on crime rates. It’s all there. The facts.

There are not predators on every corner waiting to steal your child, but you wouldn’t know that if you watch your local nightly news or the ever-sensational Nancy Grace. They would have you believe that your child must be kept under lock and key where you can see them 24 hours a day.

Some think that driving down a specific street means certain death by random gunfire. The majority of shootings occur between people who know each other. Contrary to popular belief, there are not people just waiting on street corners to shoot at passers by.

Those are just the crimes. Our fears run deep. From different cultures and beliefs to medical advancements and technology, I’ll make an attempt to make you think about your fears and those around you. Are they valid? Are they created by sensationalism? What facts support or discredit your fears?

In other words, do they hold a bit of sanity or are they pure insanity?