In his latest comments on the dark side of scientific progress, Pope Benedict XVI has said that embryonic stem cell research, artificial insemination and possible human cloning had “shattered” human dignity. He told Vatican officials in a widely-reported speech that the Catholic Church is not opposed to scientific progress, but insists that it must be based on “ethical-moral” principles. "The two fundamental criteria for moral discernment in this field," he said, "are unconditional respect for the human being as a person, from conception to natural death; and respect for the origin of the transmission of human life through the acts of the spouses."

“When human beings in the weakest and most defenseless stage of their existence are selected, abandoned, killed or used as pure 'biological matter,' how can it be denied that they are no longer being treated as 'someone' but as 'something,' thus placing the very concept of human dignity in doubt." The Vatican’s highest official on doctrinal matters, American Cardinal William Levada, said that his department was considering the possibility of preparing a new document on bioethical issues. ~ Scientific American, Jan 31; Zenit, Jan 31