Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
Last Updated on Monday, 2 August 2010 01:17 Written by Administrator Monday, 2 August 2010 01:17
Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
Americans have become the victims of misinformation about stem cell research. Over the last few years, the stem cell debate has been intensely political, religious, and confusing to many people. Now, Eve Herold explains what this science is all about, who is for and against it, and why it must go forward. She pulls together fascinating stories to highlight every aspect of this multifaceted field. She exposes the politics of stem cell research and demonstrates how the outcome of the debate could ultimately affect all of us. Packed with real-life stories of the people caught up in this groundbreaking struggle, Stem Cell Wars cuts through the noise and sets the standard for future debate.
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(out of 8 reviews)
List Price: $ 14.95
Price: $ 3.85
Reviews by Stephen E. Levick for Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
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Though issues of war and peace, and the very survival of the United States as a constitutional democracy demand our attention, there are also other important issues – matters relevant to the quality of our lives and health. Stem cell policy is one of these, and has become a focus of considerable political controversy. Every voting citizen deserves the chance to read a clear-eyed introduction to the issues surrounding stem cells in the gritty realm of politics and policy. Eve Herold’s “Stem Cell Wars: inside Stories from the Frontline,” provides just that opportunity.
Before I say more, I should offer a disclaimer: I’ve come know the author over the past year or so in her capacity as the director of research, policy, and education for the Genetics Policy Institute (GPI). This kind and thoughtful woman plays a key role in developing programs for conferences which integrate science, policy, and patient advocacy on stem cell research. In the meetings I’ve attended, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues within a broad and humane perspective. And so, I was acquainted with Eve Herold’s voice before “hearing” it in print. But my inclination to be favorably disposed towards “Stem Cell Wars,” was more than confirmed by reading the book.
“Stem Cell Wars” is written for a general audience in a clear and engaging way. But, it is Herold’s passion for the subject, fueled by her deep compassion for individuals suffering from medical conditions that might well benefit from the research that drives this book. She is unapologetic for her sense of outrage at the slight of hand, deception, and disingenuous maneuvering she deplores in the chapter, “Political Spin and Weapons of Mass Distraction.” She helps us see more clearly how some opponents to abortion see thwarting embryonic stem cell research as a way to indirectly undermine Roe vs. Wade. And, her first-hand account of the Korean cloning scandal enriches our understanding of this contemporary history.
There is sufficient detail in “Stem Cell Wars,” but the reader will never be overwhelmed by it. Herold has a way of lucidly distilling the essence of her arguments.
In addition, George Daly, a prominent stem cell research has written a masterful foreword for the book, which itself, is engaging, and concisely insightful.
“Stem Cell Wars” should help the reader to understand that embryonic stem cell research is not immoral, as claimed by some. On the contrary, as Herold argues, it is morally imperative for us to give this research a chance fulfill its potential to bring better treatments and even cures for conditions that afflict many millions.
If what I have written has not convinced you that this is an important book, please note that several right wing and fundamentalist blogs have been quick to vehemently trash it. It would seem that they really don’t want you to read “Stem Cell Wars.”
That’s understandable I guess. After all, what you don’t know can’t hurt them.
Reviews by I. Wong for Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
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Thank for the author to fight for stem cell research. I was especially impressed by Bernie Siegel. What an extraordinary person. Of course with President obama is now the president which hopefully he will be re-elected in 2012. The scene must have changed a lot. please write an update. let us know if the world of stem cell research has indeed changed for the better.
Reviews by Jeanne Wilson for Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
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Actually, I purchased this book for my son — he needed it for school and as of yet they have not started this assignment. I was very pleased with the condition and the timeliness of the delivery.
Reviews by Peter Watts for Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
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Strongly recommend Stem Cell Wars. Gives a science based report of stem cell research from it’s beginnings to the political perils it faces today. Not overly scientific. Very informative while making a strong case for the continuation of the research while not being biased.
Reviews by Igor Faynshteyn for Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines
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While the theme and argument of the book is easy to agree with (that is if you are not a religious fanatic), it provided insufficient information about what it alleges to provide – the inside stories from Capitol Hill about the debate of this important issue.
Eve Herold starts out by first briefly citing historic examples where religious theologies and ideologies impeded scientific progress. One can literally write volumes about this topic as the sheer number of such examples in history is unfathomable. Hence, it could have been omitted. She provided good, brief explanations and reviews of the science of stem cell research, in language that most laymen can comprehend.
She discusses Bush’s policy and only a few inside stories from Washington DC about the politics surrounding this issue, highlighting especially senator Sam Brownback as the biggest fighter against this stem cell research, going as far as sponsoring bills that would criminalize science of stem cell research of any kind! (This theocrat needs to be voted out of office!)
In almost each chapter, Eve Herold covers individual cases of people who could be helped by the science of stem cell research, strengthening her case. Finally, in the last chapters, she covers the Korean controversy in detail and gives a brief overview of current British policy towards stem cell research.
The reason I found it inadequate is because I expected more, as well as, more detailed stories regarding the precise politics of this issue, referring to specific Senators and Congressmen who stand against this vital research. I wanted them to get exposed and get voted out. Being a biologist, I was at times bored reading about the science of it or that religious bigotry prevents this research. Those are well known facts. I wanted more exposure for the fools who stand against it, and I felt to that end it was insufficient. However, for starters, this book is very good and worth the read.