Although many in the human genetic research field are saying that there is a vast difference between animal and human cloning, we are at a crossroad where we must stop and determine whether it is in the best interest of mankind to pursue a technology that has the potential of manufacturing sentient beings. We should take a lesson from our Creator. In His wisdom, He doesn't seek to duplicate His creation. He causes each person to be conceived with a unique body, soul, and spirit. He knows that it is from our individuality and uniqueness that we are able to work together and prosper and survive.
Human duplication is solely for the sake of human vanity and no vanity is ever productive.
However, vanity is expensive. In pondering this subject from another lay-person vantage point, I see a distinct difference between the material composition of the sperm, ovum, embryo, and mature cell. I see a distinct difference between conception of a new life and the manufacturing of sentient beings. Conception has been understood to involve a sperm and an ovum or a male of the species and a female of the species. The human experience starts with the union of seed material from a man and a woman since sperm can only be produce from the male and ovum from the female.