It's no secret that stem cell research is a highly controversial topic that could potentially lead to great strides in the advancement of modern medicine. There are many factors to consider when arguing for or against stem cell research. Not only the physical and tangible factors (types of stem cells, possible uses and benefits, funding), but also the emotional ones (ethics and morals). While understanding the reasons against stem cell research is simple, understanding the reasons for it may be even simpler. Stem cell research should continue because it has the potential to advance modern medicine and improve our world. Technically, there is no defined function for stem cells within the human body, and in theory, they can form into almost any type of cell within the human body. body. There are two types of stem cells in the body known as adult or embryonic. Adult stem cells are called multipotent, meaning cells that are limited in the many cell types they could become. Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent, meaning cells that can develop into any cell type. Stem cells can be collected from various areas of the body. Bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, placenta, brain, liver, and skin fibers are all examples of places where adult stem cells are found. Obtaining these quality stem cells is believed to be the key to potentially finding cures for many feared diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, cancer and even paralysis. It is the powerful possibilities of stem cell research that make it such a valuable resource for the advancement of modern medicine. Perhaps the most debated issue in stem cell research is the use of embryonic stem cells and whether their use is et.... ..middle sheet......Ideas. By Laurie G. Kirszner and Stephen R. Mandell. Boston: Prentice Hall, 2011. 632-39. Print.2. Gyatso, Tenzin. "Our faith in science". The Blair Reader: exploring issues and ideas. By Laurie G. Kirszner and Stephen R. Mandell. Boston: Prentice Hall, 2011. 527-29. Print.3. Winslow, Ron and Gautam Naik. “Obama reverses Bush policy on funding stem cell research.” Online.wsj.com. Dow Jones & Company, Inc., March 10, 2009. Web. May 19, 2012. .4. “Stem Cell Basics – Types of Stem Cells.” Stem cells at the National Academies. 2009. Network. 22 May 2012. .5. New York Times. "Stem cells". Stem cells. New York Times, May 11, 2011. Web. May 22 2012. .