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Biomedical Engineering Argumentative Essay

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Biomedical engineering is a branch of science that combines engineering and technology and applies both concepts to biological or medical problems. This relatively new scientific field has the potential to usher in a new era of remarkable medical advancements. Conversely, the breakthroughs of this area of study are disadvantaged as many believe that its practices are immoral and unethical. Nevertheless, many positive and negative aspects can be found within this captivating new science.
Biomedical engineering has become a useful tool in the world of medicine. Scientists and engineers are opening new doorways into improving the lives of millions worldwide. An array of patients exhibiting different conditions can benefit from biomedical engineering. …show more content…

One of the main negative aspects surrounding this science is the fact that bioengineers are riding the line between advancing medicine and “playing God.” This creates a raging storm of moral and ethical dilemmas. For instance, the synthetic biology involved in creating artificial organs leads some to conclude that scientists are going too far with their endeavors: “Whenever such culturally sanctioned boundaries are breached, researchers are inevitably accused of playing God or treading in Frankenstein’s footsteps” (Van den Belt par.1). Many believe these tasks are not meant to be performed by human hands. Moreover, though man-made organs spark controversy, the most disadvantaged aspect of biomedical engineering comes from the use of embryonic stem cells. The debate emerges due to the fact that “to obtain embryonic stem cells, the early embryo has to be destroyed. This means destroying a potential human life” (“Embryonic stem cell research” par.2). To clarify, this signifies that bioengineers must choose between two moral principles when faced with stem cell research: the duty to use their findings to alleviate the suffering of others or the duty to value even the earliest stages of human life. To reveal a connection, the question of whether bioengineers are playing the role of God can be related to Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein. In the novel, Shelley sought to expose the alarming reality of the

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