James A. Byrne and John B. Gurdon

In the following viewpoint James A. Byrne and John B. Gurdon argue that the benefits of reproductive cloning—producing a child genetically identical to an individual—and therapeutic cloning—the creation of stem cells for medical uses—outweigh the risks. The authors claim that all reproductive techniques involve risks, and parents should be the ones to determine whether the risks are worth taking. The authors also assert that cloned embryonic stem cells offer the greatest potential for helping people with degenerative diseases. Gurdon, professor of cell biology at Cambridge University, is chairman of the Wellcome Cancer Research Institute. Byrne is a member of his research team.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In the authors’ opinion, how do in vitro fertilization...