Different groups and organizations have varying definitions for cloning. The American Medical Association defines cloning as “the production of genetically identical organisms via somatic cell nuclear transfer” (“Human Cloning”, 2013). Cloning is basically a method used to produce a baby that has identical genes to its parents (Dixon, 2008). It is done by taking an egg cell and removing the nucleus, which contains the required DNA (Dixon, 2008). Then DNA is taken from an adult cell and is inserted into the nucleus (Dixon, 2008). The reconstructed egg is then stimulated electrically or chemically to make it divide and become an embryo (Dixon, 2008). The same process is then used to implants the egg into a surrogate mother, using artificial insemination (Dixon, 2008). Cloning copies the DNA of a person and creates a genetically identical duplicate (Dixon, 2008). The clone will be the same as person, but different because of experiences that shape him/her. Genetics cannot define who a person is. The issue is: Is this ethical? Is making an identical human clone really right? Many people have contrasting opinions when it comes to cloning. Some believe that their possible use as organ donors are vital. Others believe that genetically altering a humans being is wrong in every way possible. The treatment of clones is also debatable: …show more content…
(Dixon, 2008)
• Sterile couples could have offspring with either the mother or father’s genetic pattern. (Dixon, 2008)
Potential Disadvantages:
• There is a possibility of compromising individual personalities. (Dixon, 2008)
• Decrease or loss of genetic variation. (Dixon, 2008)
• A “black market” of fetuses may arise from desirable donors that may want to clone themselves. This includes movie stars, athletes, celebrities, etc. (Dixon, 2008)
• The technology for cloning is not well developed enough. There is an extremely low fertility rate. In one cloning experiment, 277 eggs were used, 30 started to divide, 9 inducted pregnancy, and only 1 survived. (Dixon, 2008)
• Clones may be treated as slaves or second class citizens. (Dixon, 2008)
• Powerful leaders may use cloning to make armies. (Dixon,