Abstract
The ethics of the use of embryonic stem cells can be determined in three stages. First, the ethical framework needs to be established. For this purpose, a renewed form of moral realism should replace the logically-flawed utilitarianism that is widely used in discussions today. Second, the ontological status of the embryos from which stem cells are removed needs to be determined. An approach that sees embryos as personal bodies offers a middle way between the polar traditions that see embryos either as mere human tissue or as full human persons. Finally, particular ethical obligations can be deduced. It is ethical to use embryos surplus to the needs of assisted reproduction in research whose purpose is to enhance life substantially where appropriate consent is obtained and the bodily material not utilised in research is disposed of respectfully but not otherwise.
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