A Spectrum Of Beliefs

On the first day of our Evolution Unit, we examined a Spectrum of Beliefs showing a full range of beliefs regarding creation and evolution. I asked you to place yourself on the scale. We also watched two videos supporting different sides of the issue. If you need to revisit the videos, see the links below.

Isn't Evolution Just A Theory?
Why Is Evolution Controversial Anyway?

Where do you fall on the spectrum? Why? Make sure that your explanation is well planned and detailed.

Changing Genes To Change Lives

During our Unit 3 study of genetics, we will be exploring the ethical issues of genetic testing, disorders, cloning, and biotechnology. A new genetic scenario will be posted each week. Choose at least two of the scenarios. Read them, think about your opinion, and share your thoughts as a comment. Remember that everyone can read your thoughts, so make sure they are appropriate and well-written. Check back to see how the class has responded to what you have to say.

Scenario 1: A Happy & Healthy Life...

Fast forward 10 years...you are happily married and have decided to start a family. Your baby is due in just four short months. You go in for an ultrasound and find out that the baby is a boy. The doctor also informs you that he has seen several issues indicating that the baby may be born with Down Syndrome, a genetic disorder causing developmental delays. He also tells you that with advances in medicine, it is entirely possible to "fix" the genetic problem before the baby is born. The procedure is risky, but if successful, your son could lead a normal, healthy life.

What decision would you make? Why?

Scenario 2: What Is Normal?

Thousands, probably even millions, of people in this world are affected by disorders. We continually say that if we could identify cures for disorders like Down Syndrome, Autism, or Tourettes, then affected people could live normal lives.

Do you know anyone with a genetic disorder? Do they live a "normal" life? How do you define normal?

Scenario 3: A Moral Dilemma

The past few weeks, Colorado has received a ton of great snow. You and a close friend decide to hit the slopes of Winter Park for a day of skiing and snowboarding. Your morning is awesome, so you decide to go in for some lunch. Another skier swerves in front of you suddenly, and in an attempt to avoid him, your friend loses control and suffers serious internal injuries.

Months later, your close friend remains in the hospital awaiting a liver transplant. She is low on the priority list, but her time is running out. The doctors have suggested using a cloned liver made from embryonic stem cells. Your friend needs the transplant to live, but is struggling with the ethics of the decision. She asks you for advice.

What do you tell her?

Scenario 4: Stem Cell Ethics

Stem Cell Research is highly debated in science, medicine, and even government.

Click here to learn more about stem cells:
http://gslc.genetics.utah.edu/units/stemcells/whatissc/

Click here to learn more about how stem cells are used:
http://gslc.genetics.utah.edu/units/stemcells/sctypes/

Now that you have some background, please respond to one, two, or all of the following questions:
1. Should the government provide funding for embryonic stem cell research?
2. Do embryonic stem represent human life?
3. Should there be laws to regulate stem cell research?