Some really promising scientific news today. Scientists in both Japan and the US have announced their success in generating stem cells using human skin rather than embryos. Given that concern around the use of embryos is one of the key barriers to greater investment in stem cell research, this is a major breakthrough, which offers the potential for a sea-change in political and public support. Why does this matter? Well, existing research suggests that stem cell science could generate cures for cancer, strokes, Alzheimer's and a huge range of other serious (and less serious) medical conditions - as well as offering regenerative potential in those with injuries or recovering post-surgery. Their potential has already seized the public's imagination in many countries, and unfortunately this has led to some 'dodgy' research and product sales, too - another reason why a more active and open research field would be welcome. So, all in all, a very good reason to be hopeful.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
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3 comments:
These discoveries are very opportune. The work seems to have all the benefits of embryonic stem cell research without the moral and political issues that have dogged the latter. It is amazing that life-saving advances in medical science can be shackled by a conservative President’s veto, but thankfully the issue need not now come to a head. Yes, another reason to be hopeful.
Great news, indeed.
Wouldn't it be great if there was a way to measure just how good news was? Rather than just a scale of good, to great, to fantastic, but real numbers?
I know there are already measures based on the consequences of things, such as how much it improves quality of life, or inputted cash benefits. But that doesn't quite capture it. Partly because some consequences are virtually impossible to assess (what, exactly, were the consequences of the assassination in Sarajevo in June 1914 - a death, a war, a ruined century...?). Partly because consequences aren't all that counts - the consequences of yesterday's story may just be that an old man goes to prison, but the story means so much more.
So how can we assess how good news is?
I like the layout of your webpage.
I also love the Liberia story--this is a great example of hope and innovation. Liberia's Ministry of Education, together with UNICEF (I think), are implementing hundreds of advanced learning centers all througout the country, in effort to restore the educational system and address the needs of child soliders. Something like 40,000 Liberian kids are participating! With this kind of commitment to education, real recovery and development are actually possible for this country. And that's not BOLLOCKS, darling.
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