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Like all controversial issues which involve the dark forces of politics, there is the implication of hindrance and political intervention. Abortion was an issue across the globe as political and religious activists attempted to challenge the legislation that was being passed to help women and support the developments in medicine and research. In the United Kingdom, legislation was passed in light of a crucial vote that was decided through a scarce numbers of MPs (Members of Parliament) and there were implications that the MPs had been 'bribed' for their votes. This is one mere example of political intervention in medical research and the progression of medicine in light of changes in this world.
Stem cell research is a concept which is opposed by religious advocates on the grounds that it is not within 'God's plans' and religious advocates often have an influence on American and British politics. For example, the 'New Christian Right' which is a Protestant denomination, often supports the decisions of the 'rich and powerful' and, although their influence on American politics is quite small, their influence still exists. If the case remains that religious advocates have an influence on politics, there is no question that controversial issues such as stem cell research will often meet challenges and be burdened with politicial activism such as open debate, protests and, in the extreme of cases, violence.
What one must understand is that political activism often hinders the progression of that particular subject because the government is unwilling to support a cause which is opposed in an 'open fashion'. Abortion, for example, was opposed for quite some time until news of 'back-street' abortions came to light and the government argued that it was in the interest of the public to legalise abortions under a doctor's supervision. In a number of respects, funding for such research projects as stem cell research is often stiffled in the light of public conflict and a tension between political views.
GM crops were first opposed due to the criticisms of farmers and the public being hesitant to eat foods which had been modified in order to make them 'last longer' or 'resistant to pesticides.' Abortion was opposed because it was deemed wrong to 'kill a life'. Throughout time, there have been countless examples of controversial issues being pushed aside. When the government should be casting light on a subject, instead it is left in the dark until the public has 'settled down'.
Stem cell research is a vital part of government research and medical advances within this field can help to save thousands of life, with the potential to find cures for cancer and other known diseases being unlimited. Stem cell research has helped experts in the field of medicine to understand the cause of disease and illness. Genetics has progressed ten-fold in the last few decades as a result of government funding but political activism forces the government to withdraw their support in order to 'appease the public.'
For the common man, he must ask himself this: what is it worth? Stem cell research could save the child dying of leukemia. Stem cell research could save the woman dying of cervical cancer. Stem cell research could save the frail man dying of pneumonia. There are endless possibilities. What political activism does is to damage the reputation of notable figures and questions the purpose of such a task, falsifying the evidence in order to sway the public in their favour. Does political activism hinder the advance of society? Yes. Does political activism damage the prospect of a better world? Yes. Should people remain silent? No. Stand up and be counted. There is no room for violence. There is no room for anger. In a world where millions are dying of poverty and disease, people have to begin to think, is this what is right for the world? In a world where people are being told that 'crime is on the rise' and 'financial crises are upon us', there is nothing worse than politicians sitting in a room quarrelling over a good cause. Stand up and be counted. Stand up and change the world.
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