¶ … genetically modified or altered (GM) crops. Specifically, it will discuss information on GM crops, the risks, the benefits, and how GM crops differ from traditional plant breeding. Genetically modified crops are not new, they have been in existence for many years, but they are extremely controversial - in part because some people do not comprehend their makeup, and in part because they are innovative, and there are still many questions that need to be answered about their affect on people, the environment, and overall health. Basically, GM crops are crops that have been genetically altered through science. Essentially, their DNA, or specific genes, are transferred between one plant and another to create different qualities, such as hardiness, etc. Some people call this "genetic engineering." It takes the best qualities of one plant and mates them with another to create a new sub-species or even species (Editors). These plants are generally easier to grow, produce more, or withstand elements or pests better. Just for the record, GM most often refers to crop plants, but it can really refer to any living organism, "such as pets that glow under UV light to bacteria which form HIV-blocking 'living condoms'" (Pickrell). Are there real risks to GM crops? It seems the jury is out on that question. Initially when...
Many people believe that GM crops can cause a variety of health risks, from "producing toxic proteins (and allergens) or transferring antibiotic-resistance and other genes to human gut bacteria to damaging effect" (Pickrell). However, many of these risks have not been proved, and the research that showed GM potatoes harmed rats was criticized by other scientists. In fact, GM crops are commonly available throughout many countries in the world, including the U.S., where they do not have to be labeled.
Gene Tinkering in Agriculture. Are genetically altered crops dangerous? Individuals who fear the risks of such scientifically and commercially innovative products as generically altered crops or foods, otherwise as GMs, often call these products 'Frankenfoods.' Depending on which side of the debate you believe, crops that have been genetically modified "offer either the best hope ever to feed the world or the danger of a new era of biological pollution, threatening
Christian Biotechnology: Not a Contradiction in Terms Presented with the idea of "Bioethics" most people in the scientific community today immediately get the impression of repressive, Luddite forces wishing to stifle research and advancement in the name of morality and God. Unfortunately, this stereotype too often holds true. If one looks over the many independent sites on the Internet regarding bioethics, reads popular magazines and publications, or browses library shelves for
genetically engineered crops, or genetically modified (GM) foods, as they are often called. Specifically it will discuss why genetically engineered crops will help residents of the Third World. Ultimately, each year the world is generating too many people to feed adequately. Without the use of genetically engineered food, some people simply will not be able to survive. genetically modified foods offer an alternative for many people of the world,
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