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Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Frontlines

eve herold george daley

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Americans have become the victims of misinformation about stem cell research. Over the last few years, the stem cell debate has been intensely political, religious, and confusing to many people. Now, Eve Herold explains what this science is all about, who is for and against it, and why it must go forward. She pulls together fascinating stories to highlight every aspect of this multifaceted field. She exposes the politics of stem cell research and demonstrates how the outcome of the debate could ultimately affect all of us. Packed with real-life stories of the people caught up in this groundbreaking struggle, Stem Cell Wars cuts through the noise and sets the standard for future debate.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1,2006

This edition

Format
256 pages, Hardcover
Published
September 19, 2006 by Palgrave Macmillan
ISBN
9781403974990
ASIN
1403974993
Language
English

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About the author

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eve herold

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Eve Herold has had a lifelong fascination with issues at the intersection of science, ethics and society. She has written and spoken extensively about the transformative power of cutting-edge science and medicine. Driven by an insatiable curiosity about what lies ahead for the human race, Eve's work crosses categories, exploring issues in biology and medicine, bioethics, social issues, end-of-life matters, aging and human-technology interaction. Always at the center of her writings are real men and women seeking to navigate a world that is changing at lightning speed.

Eve has had a long career in science communications. She is past director of the Office of Communications and Public Affairs at the American Psychiatric Association and has served as Director of Pubic Policy Research and Education at the Genetics Policy Institute. Other positions include Public Education director at the Stem Cell Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization promoting biomedical research and education. She is also the former managing editor of The Gerontologist, a scholarly journal that explores the many facets of aging and its impact on society.

Eve has written and spoken extensively about the emerging field of stem cell research, publishing the book Stem Cell Wars: Inside Stories from the Front Lines in 2006. The book won a commendation in popular medicine from the British Medical Association. Her writings have appeared in newspapers and magazines nationwide. She has written several publications on Alzheimer's disease and other age-related and degenerative diseases and their impact on patients, families, caregivers and society. Her book, Stem Cell Wars, has been included in the syllabus in a class on science communications at the University of California at Berkeley, and she is a contributor to the Springer International Encyclopedia of Sciences and Religions. Her new book, Beyond Human: How Cutting-Edge Science is Extending Our Lives, has been nominated for a Kirkus Prize in Nonfiction. The book will be released in August 2016.

Eve lives in the Washington, DC area, is married and has a cat named Cosmo.

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Community Reviews

Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 4 votes)
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Dingomann
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This is by no means something revolutionary.

However, Harold does a great job in presenting several powerful arguments in favor of stem cell research in a nice and eloquent way, without being repetitive.

The book is relatively low-tech and easy to understand, making it a solid introduction to a much-needed debate.

Contrary to what the title might imply, there is not a plethora of "inside stories".

Most of the information presented here is already common knowledge.

Despite this, the book still manages to offer a valuable perspective on the topic of stem cell research.

It provides a good starting point for those who are interested in learning more about this important area of scientific research.

Overall, it is a worthwhile read for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the issues surrounding stem cell research.
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jasonthach_1412
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This is a very informative book, though it may be a bit biased, regarding stem cells and the ongoing debate in the US about whether to permit research on them.

As a scientist, this book was somewhat like "preaching to the choir" for me. However, it did offer an interesting overview of the background and history of how the conflict over stem cell research originated.

The book delves into the various aspects of stem cell research, including its potential benefits and the ethical concerns that have been raised. It explores the different positions taken by various groups and individuals, and how these positions have influenced the political and social debate.

Overall, while the book may not change the minds of those who are firmly opposed to stem cell research, it does provide a valuable resource for those who are interested in learning more about this important and controversial topic.
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Zagettrix
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This book, although a bit dated, remains an outstanding primer on stem cell research and the intense battle surrounding it.

It presents the basics of stem cells at a layperson's level, covering what they are, their origin, and the various activities being carried out with them. You will acquire the essential scientific terms and distinctions necessary to engage in discussions on this topic, yet it doesn't feel like dry science. Some sections read like dramas, such as Bernie Siegel's struggle against the 2003 UN treaty (proposed by Costa Rica) to ban all forms of cloning, whether therapeutic or otherwise.

"Stem Cell Wars" is not intended as a refutation of the arguments against stem cell research. However, it does provide an overview of some of the opposing viewpoints, highlighting certain errors and inconsistencies. The book is more focused on what the research entails, its potential directions, and those who are opposed to it. You get a glimpse into the antics and fears of the anti-stem cell lobby, which is both hilarious and frightening.

It is a short and engaging read. I highly recommend it. I believe that had I read this book first, I would have found Kira Peikoff's "Living Proof" even more enjoyable. The social and political context in her book would have seemed much more plausible.

Overall, this book offers a valuable introduction to the complex and controversial field of stem cell research.
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sh0ckra
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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As a Type I Diabetic, I have a profound and personal interest in stem cell research.

This is because I firmly believe that this research holds the crucial key to curing diabetes, which has had a significant impact on my life.

The book I read has been an invaluable resource, providing me with highly accessible and in-depth knowledge regarding the political, moral, and scientific aspects related to stem cell research.

It has opened my eyes to the complex web of issues surrounding this field.

Thanks to this book, my passion for stem cell research has been further ignited.

I now feel better equipped to engage in discussions with others about the pros and cons of such research.

I can present a more informed and balanced perspective, taking into account the various factors at play.

This newfound knowledge and confidence have not only deepened my understanding but also made me more actively involved in the conversation about the future of stem cell research and its potential to bring about a cure for diabetes and other diseases.

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