Leading scientists kicked off a new series of The Next Big Thing with a live and topical debate chaired by Professor Colin Blakemore.

In the first week, the panel looked at the issue of cloning.

Cloning is one of the most controversial areas of current scientific research. Stem cell research, which involves the cloning of human embryos, is now legal in the UK after a ruling by the House of Lords.

The opportunities for medical science to affect the future health not only of individuals but of the human species are expanding at a seemingly unstoppable pace. The scientific developments raise ethical dilemmas and may make us question whether medical science can alter human evolution.

Find out how cloning came to the forefront of scientific debate in story so far.
Understand the science behind the subject in cloning in depth.
Consider the opinions of eminent scientists in hear the arguments.

Read the comments received so far in your view.

If you are intrigued by the subject, why not take your interest further by studying with the Open University?