A 14-day limit for bioethics: the debate over human embryo research

This article explores the main arguments in favor of and against extending the 14-day limit for conducting research on human embryos. Cavaliere also provides an overview of the historical roots of the 14-day rule and notes that it favored compromise between competing moral views. For the author, the potential research benefits of keeping embryos alive for longer than ever before do not suffice to extend the limit. The article presents two arguments in favor of compromise. First, if public consensus does not support research with embryos, and it is conducted regardless, researchers risk undermining public trust by dismissing public concerns in favor of instrumental research. Second, Cavaliere argues that respect for value pluralism demands commitment to democratic decision-making processes that address conflicting moral views held in society.