I don't mind the stem cell debates. It just peeves me when people word it as an automatic perfect cure.
Biotechnology have been heavily debated since the '80s. So it is not really new. If you want someone to blame for the surge in popularity in stem cell debates on deaf forums, blame the people that experimented with restoring stereocillia in rodents about a decade or so ago.
It is related to improving one's hearing-- so they should stay in the "hearing aids & cochlear implants" section of the forum. I just choose not to talk about the science or treatments, however I will debate on the philosophical issue surrounding it regarding society's view toward technology and deaf education. If someone want to get stem cells, way to go-- just be aware that all the social issues won't disappear.
I just won't get stem cells because I have been mucked around with by doctors for far too long to the point where I am willing to refuse non-oral treatments-- and I have done so already before many time in the last five years. Nothing against stem cells, just I want some peace away from the probes and needles.