Note: Regarding the legal dimensions and especially the fiqh aspects of stem cells, there are not many books. One of these books is the book “Fiqh and Legal Approaches to Stem Cell Technology” written by Ms. Mahnaz Ebrahimi Ordaklou. Below is the content report of this book:
Mahnaz Ebrahimi Ordaklou, Sanjesh va Danesh Publications, Rah-e Doctory, 1396 AH (solar), first edition, 110 pages.
The book “Examination of Fiqh and Legal Issues Related to Stem Cell Technology” examines one of the newest and most complex scientific, ethical, and legal issues. Advances in biotechnology, especially in the field of stem cells, have opened new windows for treating incurable diseases; but these advances have also brought numerous fiqh and legal challenges. This book has tried to examine the fiqh and legal approaches related to this topic with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary view.
General Structure of the Book
The book includes 5 main chapters and an introduction and conclusion. Each chapter is dedicated to examining one of the thematic aspects related to stem cell technology:
- Definition and Scientific Foundations of Stem Cells;
- Fiqh Principles and Sharia Foundations;
- Related Legal Frameworks;
- Ethical and Fiqh Challenges;
- Applications, Limitations, and Suggestions.
Chapter One: Definition and Scientific Foundations of Stem Cells
This chapter is dedicated to the scientific introduction of stem cells. The key topics of this chapter include:
Definition of Stem Cells: Introduction to types of stem cells including embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent.
Scientific Advances: Review of the history and advancements in stem cell technology.
Applications: Use of stem cells in treating diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases. This chapter provides the scientific context of the topic and clarifies the importance of this technology.
Chapter Two: Fiqh Principles and Sharia Foundations
In this chapter, the fiqh foundations related to stem cell technology are examined. The author analyzes the following principles and rules:
Rule of La Darar wa La Haraj: Examination of the effects of these rules on the use of stem cells.
Rule of Taslit: Analysis of the legitimacy of individuals’ ownership over their cells.
Rule of Prohibition of Embryo: Fiqh challenges related to the use of embryos in scientific research.
This chapter tries to harmonize fiqh views with scientific issues and addresses topics such as the sanctity of life and human dignity.
Chapter Three: Related Legal Frameworks
This chapter examines the legal issues related to the use of stem cells:
Domestic Laws: Review of existing laws in Iran regarding harvesting and using stem cells.
International Laws: Comparative comparison of legal frameworks in different countries.
Rights of Patients and Researchers: Examination of informed consent and privacy of individuals in using stem cells.
The author emphasizes that legal frameworks must be arranged in such a way as to protect individuals’ rights and prevent abuse.
Chapter Four: Ethical and Fiqh Challenges
This chapter is dedicated to the ethical and fiqh challenges of stem cell technology. Important topics in this chapter include the following:
Ethical Issues: Such as harvesting stem cells from human embryos and the possibility of violating human dignity.
Fiqh Views: Disagreements among jurists regarding the legitimacy of using embryos.
Cultural and Social Conflicts: Various reactions of Islamic and non-Islamic societies to this echnology.
The author has tried to analyze these challenges by presenting different views and provide solutions to resolve them.
Chapter Five: Applications, Limitations, and Suggestions
In this chapter, the author addresses the practical applications and legal and sharia limitations of stem cell technology:
Therapeutic Applications: Use of stem cells in producing drugs and treating genetic diseases.
Limitations: Such as the prohibition of using embryonic cells in some cases and legal challenges related to cell ownership.