How to Answer: How do you feel about stem cell research using fetal tissue?
12. How do you feel about stem cell research using fetal tissue?
How to Answer
Ethical based questions require you to look at an issue in a multi-faceted way. The panel of interviewers wants to see that you have an understanding of all sides, whether or not you agree with them. State your opinion on the topic, while also incorporating facts where you can. This approach shows that you have thoughtfully considered all sides of a controversial issue.
Answer Example
"In the US, there are no laws against stem cell research, although many parties still oppose the idea. I fully understand that stem cells are the body's raw materials, and these cells can help us to understand how diseases work. This practice is truly valuable to medical research. We can use these healthy cells to replace diseased cells and even test drugs to see if they are safe and effective. Embryonic stem cells, in particular, are obtained from early-stage embryos. These stem cells come from embryos fertilized outside of the womb, and not from a pregnant woman. These embryos are harvested specifically for research. In the process, these early-stage embryos are destroyed, which is where the controversy comes to play. Many people against this practice approach the situation with the same arguments around abortion because the practice prevents an embryo from becoming a baby. In my professional understanding, I do not consider an embryo to be human life yet, but rather a bundle of cells. The scientific gains from this practice are critically important, and will save millions of lives."
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