Very interesting post and responses. The whole issue of cloning is interesting because it's already taking place. I am no expert on this issue. My opinion is that it will be dangerous to us as a species at some point and that there will be no ability to save ourselves because of some related issue(immune systems, diseases, etc.). Maybe our scientist will make all the right decisions and no harm, no foul. However, scientists tend to be just as ignorant as others in decision making processes. The good, the bad and the ugly. When scientists have decided for all of us because "they" know cloning is necessary, we as a species are probably doomed.
My perspective can be changed. Let me read and hear audibly from others(through broadcasting) how we absolutely need to clone vs. not for our continued existence and productive continuation of our species.
Recently I watched a documentary on Hulu called The Future of Food. It was interesting and scary at the same time. A portion of which talks about cloning. If you have not watched this, I think it is in your best interest to do so. I do not have the required knowledge to make an evaluation of whether or not its conclusions are accurate but it should worry anyone who wants or has a family and concern for its long term growth.
I have no children and am not likely to have any. If I did, I probably would get very angry at the whole cloning issue. As it is, it makes for good conversation about likely outcomes or eventuality's regarding cloning.
I have yet to see a persuasive argument for cloning(can we not discover other methods for extending the quality of our lives?).