In an Executive Order issued Monday, March 9th, 2009, United States President Barack Obama lifted the restrictions on federal funding of human embryonic stem cell research. The White House invited parties from both advocates and opponents to a public ceremony for the signing of the Executive Order. The lifting of the restrictions is expected to provide a major boost to one of the most promising, as well as most controversial, fields of biomedical research.

After the fertilization of an egg and sperm cell, a zygote is formed. The zygote undergoes a series of division and changes, forming an embryo. Five days after fertilization, there is an inner group of cells which later develop into the fetus. Embryos at this stage contain stem cells which have the potential of morphing into any tissues of the body. Scientists believe the embryonic stem cells will "yield fundamental insights into the underlying causes of many diseases…and be used to repair damage caused by diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries and other conditions," reported Rob Stein onv www.washingtonpost.com.However, all the potential of embryonic stem cells is hindered due to ethical conflicts. One large source of contention is that the extraction of these stem cells destroys the days old embryo.

Contrary to popular belief, embryonic stem cell research is legal in the United States. Rather, the federal funding of embryonic stem cell research was banned. In our democratic nation, a poll on www.washingtonpost.com revealed "59 percent of Americans said they supported loosening the current restrictions [on embryonic stem cell research.]" Two times within three years, George W. Bush, vetoed bills for stem cell research enhancement. His basis for the veto was due to an opposition regarding embryonic stem cell research on personal ideological grounds.

Embryonic stem cell research is desired by many scientists for a better understanding of human development and the growth and treatment of diseases. In comparison to adult stem cells, embryonic stem cells have an "unlimited ability to proliferate in vitro, and are more likely to be able to generate a broad range of cell types," reported www.stemcells.nih.gov. However, the possibilities for embryonic stem cells are limited and hypothetical without ample research and experimentation.

Many remain opposed to embryonic stem cell research. When the stem cells are extracted from the embryo days after fertilization, the embryos are destroyed. Many pro-lifers say the benefits of embryonic stem cells are outweighed by the reality that you are destroying a human life. Many advocates against embryonic stem cell research support their beliefs with the backing that more extensive research regarding adult stem cells should be done before destroying embryos. There are many drawbacks and burdens to the pursuit of embryonic stem cell research. There is the risk of many setbacks in the procedure, such as the formation of tumors in the receptor of these cells.

Many studies today declare the United States is lacking the needed advancement in the field of science. As countries around the world including Great Britain, South Korea, India, Germany and Japan rapidly pioneer the new technology involving embryonic stem cell research, the United States is just as rapidly being left behind. "The United States is being left farther and farther behind in medical technology. The US is also losing out on billions in new economic opportunities at a time when our country sorely needs new sources of revenues," wrote Deborah White on www.usliberals.about.com. Embryonic stem cell research also has the ability to generate new jobs and revenue in this time of economic recession.

Whether in opposition or approval of embryonic stem cell research, one can’t ignore the tremendous potential positive impact the results could provide. Yet the moral values of some still slow down the necessary research.