Yes, it’s true. I’m a flip-flopper. If I was running for political office, it would be only a matter of hours until my past would be made public and the whole world would come to know the truth. You see, I was once pro-choice. But some 10 years ago, I found myself in a position where I could no longer hold onto my pro-choice ideology and I made the switch to the pro-life side of the aisle. What many would deem as political suicide or expediency for professional gain – or even worse, hypocrisy — was, indeed, just a change of heart based on facts, reason, and my ability to see the issue through a different lens. I had new information, and I changed my mind.

Yes, it’s true. I’m a flip-flopper. If I was running for political office, it would be only a matter of hours until my past would be made public and the whole world would come to know the truth. You see, I was once pro-choice. But some 10 years ago, I found myself in a position where I could no longer hold onto my pro-choice ideology and I made the switch to the pro-life side of the aisle. What many would deem as political suicide or expediency for professional gain – or even worse, hypocrisy — was, indeed, just a change of heart based on facts, reason, and my ability to see the issue through a different lens. I had new information, and I changed my mind.

At the CBC, our mission is focused on educating people on bioethics. We work hard to get people the most up-to-date information on matters pertaining to bioethics. Our team of experts in the field helps us to effectively disseminate the most accurate of information, letting the facts speak for themselves. And, yes, by using valid sound reasoning and commentary, we do our share of trying to make “flip-floppers” out of those who don’t always share our point of view.

I recall participating in a debate at the San Francisco Commonwealth Club. At one point, the moderator insinuated that it must discourage me to try to persuade people to adopt the bioethical positions of the CBC, swimming upstream in a culture so hostile to our beliefs about the embryo, human cloning, eugenics and biotechnological “progress” which undermines our common humanity. But because I have first-hand experience of a mind-changing moment, I was able to respond with a resounding “NO.” I really do believe people can change their mind for the right reasons, and not just flip-flopping around to get ahead on the job or to gain favor with public opinion. I really do believe that, if given the facts, reasonable people from all sides of the political aisle and from diverse religious backgrounds can find common cause. There are places of agreement where we can build upon shared values of a human future and move forward in constructive ways.

That said, we at the CBC have a very busy summer ahead of us.

Over the next several weeks we have the privilege of working with three interns: Manuel Acuna , Scott Auslund and George Davis . Manuel and George have just finished their first year of law school, and Scott is an undergraduate student studying communications. We will be rolling out the fruits of their summer labors over these next few weeks as we take to the streets and get their feet wet in the world of bioethics. And the world will truly be in better shape as more people learn about the CBC through the efforts of these interns. If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area and are interested in attending a reception in their honor, please contact me for the details.

I’ll be speaking at Google Monday, July 14 th , and then speaking at the Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity conference in Chicago, July 16 th . Also, this fall the CBC is conducting a three week series in Newport Beach: for those in the area, please help us spread the word! I hope to see some of you at various events these next few months.

Join us and help us make a difference by promoting ethical biotechnology and scientific research for a truly human future!

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