Why are embryonic stem cells viewed with ethical concerns?

The ethical concerns regarding embryonic stem cells largely stem from the potential loss of life involved in their extraction. Embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos, which are typically created through in vitro fertilization and are at an early developmental stage. When scientists obtain these stem cells, it often leads to the destruction of the embryo. This process raises significant moral and ethical questions about the status of embryos, as many people believe that human life begins at conception, and therefore, destroying an embryo equates to taking a life.

This ethical debate is at the heart of discussions surrounding research and therapeutic applications involving embryonic stem cells. Individuals and organizations may have differing views on the moral implications associated with this potential loss of life, which influences public policy and funding for such research. The other factors mentioned, such as non-viability and difficulty of obtaining stem cells, do not inherently carry the same ethical weight as the implications of life and death. Similarly, while there are concerns about disease risk associated with stem cell therapies, this is more a matter of scientific validity and safety rather than an ethical issue connected to the source of the cells themselves.