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Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Ethical Views of Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic Leaders in Malaysia

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Abstract

Embryonic Stem Cell Research (ESCR) raises ethical issues. In the process of research, embryos may be destroyed and, to some, such an act entails the ‘killing of human life’. Past studies have sought the views of scientists and the general public on the ethics of ESCR. This study, however, explores multi-faith ethical viewpoints, in particular, those of Buddhists, Hindus and Catholics in Malaysia, on ESCR. Responses were gathered via semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Three main ethical quandaries emerged from the data: (1) sanctity of life, (2) do no harm, and (3) ‘intention’ of the research. Concerns regarding the sanctity of life are directed at particular research protocols which interfere with religious notions of human ensoulment and early consciousness. The principle of ‘do no harm’ which is closely related to ahimsa prohibits all acts of violence. Responses obtained indicate that respondents either discourage research that inflicts harm on living entities or allow ESCR with reservations. ‘Intention’ of the research seems to be an interesting and viable rationale that would permit ESCR for the Buddhists and Hindus. Research that is intended for the purpose of alleviating human suffering is seen as being ethical. This study also notes that Catholics oppose ESCR on the basis of the inviolability of human life.

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Acknowledgments

This study was supported by University of Malaya PPP Grant, PS 023 2012-A.

Conflict of interest

None.

Ethical standard

This study conforms to the standard ethical recommendations. This study does not involve clinical intervention using human or animal subjects. As far as this study is concerned, informed consent was obtained in writing prior to interviews from all the religious leaders (respondents of this study).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Mathana Amaris Fiona Sivaraman & Siti Nurani Mohd Noor

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  1. Mathana Amaris Fiona Sivaraman
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  2. Siti Nurani Mohd Noor
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Correspondence to Mathana Amaris Fiona Sivaraman.

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Sivaraman, M.A.F., Noor, S.N.M. Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Ethical Views of Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic Leaders in Malaysia. Sci Eng Ethics 22, 467–485 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-015-9666-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-015-9666-9

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