| Description: | The idea for this thesis arose from the sad death of Christopher Reeve, Superman, in October of 2004, combined with the heated and ongoing debate that surrounds the issue of stem cell research and the putative benefits of stem cell use in health-related applications. It seemed to us that some attention should be drawn to the connection between the idea of a super-man, that is, a person (male or female) that is or can become endowed with some kind of super-powers, on the one hand; and the more-than-ever present and urgent necessity - facing the whole human race - of coming to some kind of solution to the problem of isolating, manipulating, and channeling the seemingly infinite power and versatility of the stem cell. Accordingly, we divided our task into 3 main parts. First, we gave a brief account of the life and influence of Christopher Reeve, as a person and as the prototypal modern Superman. Next, we traced the primordial notions of a superman, as expressed in religion and mythology, leading up to the modern notions and embodiments of extraordinary, more-than-human characters. We focused upon the powers that were most prevalent and most popular, in these characters, both the pre-Superman ones and the post-Superman ones. And, finally, we delved into the problematic question of stem cell research and stem cell applicability, trying to remain objective and impartial while examining what has been done in this area, and what remains to be done. In all parts of the thesis we tried, earnestly, to avoid taking a stance on one side or the other. While acknowledging the manifest and miraculous potential benefits of stem cell applications, we also tried to take into account and give due weight to the objections of those persons who regard stem cell isolation and culture as murder, at best, and cannibalism at the worst. We feel that we were largely successful in maintaining our objectivity, and, as a result, we can present this thesis as a finished product that invites the reader's serious perusal and challenges him or her to think about the issues involved; while leaving the ultimate decision, on one side or the other, to each reader's conscience |
