Originally Posted by MTI

The only time the African continent appeared on the US political radar was when there was a threat that the Soviets would extend their influence as the European colonial leaders withdrew leaving a leadership vaccum. American intersts were aimed at the petroleum resources of the Gulf, not the continent. Dictators could be bought and brought into line easier than trying to foster a true democracy for the people. In essence, we left Africa's problems to be dealt with by the French, the English, the Dutch and the other colonial nations. That is the legacy we have to deal with.

Stem cell research is just a political punching bag. Fundamentalist don't want to give an inch on the "right to life" fight, so they don't want any federal funds spent on research beyond the measly, corrupted lines that were grandfathered in. Meanwhile, states like NJ and Calif are sidestepping the ban on funding and using their own resources to attract and keep research going in the US. The research is too important and potentially lucrative to be stopped by an artificial ban on government funding. It may take longer, but the other public/private sectors worldwide will do it.

One has to wonder if those conservative objectors will stick to their beliefs if a viable treatment for Parkinson, MS, ALS or other neuro diseases is developed overseas or in those states, and they or their family is in need of it. Wouldn't that be the true test of one's beliefs?