Lines That Divide Film Continues Asking Tough Questions About Bioethics Research
by Steven Ertelt
LifeNews.com Editor
November 4, 2009
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) — Most pro-life advocates can easily articulate the pro-life perspective when it comes to the issue of abortion. But when complex bioethics questions like embryonic stem cell research and human cloning arise, the ability to shape a sound argument escapes even some long-time pro-life activists.
That’s where the film Lines That Divide comes in to play.
Lines that Divide, produced by Biola University Chair of Cinema and Media Arts, Jack Hafer, looks into the scientific basics of stem cell research and the political issues surrounding it while asking significant questions such as if the end justifies the means.
The critically-needed film has already produced rave reviews.
"Lines That Divide is a much-needed tool for equipping concerned citizens with a comprehensive view of the science and ethics shaping the stem cell debate today," says Chuck Colson of Prison fellowship.
"The film spotlights the breakthroughs being made by adult stem cell therapy — breakthroughs which are not receiving equal funding or equal media coverage. Al of us who believe in supporting life should see this film and recommend it to others," he added.
John Cusey, the former top staffer for the House Pro-Life Caucus in Congress, also highly recommends the film.
"If you are looking for an antidote to the confusion surrounding the science and ethics of embryo stem cell research, Lines That Divide is the movie for you. It cuts through the hype and leaves you with the facts to be able to make informed policy decisions," he says.
In Lines That Divide, the viewer is introduced to the basic science of stem cells and how they are gathered for medical use. Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells are both explained along with their similarities, differences and methods of procurement.
Scientific issues are examined, such as the benefits, drawbacks, and scientific and medical results of both.
The documentary also introduces the moral issues being argued in the public square – issues of human life and the medical utilization of embryos, as well as women’s health issues that arise from the procurement of eggs used in much of the research. Scientists, doctors and ethicists on both sides weigh in with their views.
One of the solutions to achieving the mass amount of stem cell lines needed for this burgeoning stem cell industry is cloning. The documentary examines cloning, what it is, what it isn’t, as well as the current scientific, moral and political issues surrounding this volatile issue in the debate.
Lastly, the film looks at the horizon of scientific and medical research in stem cells. New and alternate forms of creating or accumulating stem cells seem to be making breakthroughs monthly around the world as scientists explore the vistas of possibilities, while seeking to address the ethical issues surrounding the lines that divide.
Thursday night, Hafer will join Scott Rae, Chair of Philosophy of Religion and Ethics at Talbot School of Theology, Jennifer Lahl, Associate Producer and National Director of the Center for Bioethics and Culture Network and Brian Godawa, Writer and Director of Lines that Divide for a discussion of the film after a screening at Biola University.
Related web sites:
Lines That Divide – https://www.LinesThatDivide.com
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