Biotechnology
Anti- Biotechnology Video
Pro Biotechnology Video
Slide 1: “If a scientist could end world hunger would you let her? Under what circumstances would we not allow Science to solve this problem?” Recent advances in the study of genetics have allowed scientists to “engineer” or manipulate the genes of an organism. This practice, known as biotechnology, allows scientist to create desired traits within organisms. I want everyone to line up across the back of the room. As we go through this discussion I want you all to decide whether you agree or disagree with the use of genetically modified foods. Those who agree will congregate on the left side of the room. Those who disagree will congregate on the right side. If you are undecided stay in the middle. You are free to change your mind as we discuss the many sides of this issue.
Slide 2: Scientists use insertions or deletions within the DNA of an organism to create the desired effect. Why would scientists want to do this? How could we change organisms to make them “better”? Is this ethical?
Slide 3: One form of biotechnology is known as the genetic modification of foods. We all know that food doesn’t last forever. Over time food spoils. This can happen from insects eating crops, or other plants taking over the desired crop. Just like humans, crops are susceptible to disease. Genetic modification of these foods can alleviate some of these pressures which can effect crop survival.
Slide 4: One of the major global health issues which effects many individuals is world hunger. Unfortunately, many people all over the world face shortages in food supply for various reasons. In third world countries, crops often die and there is neither the technology nor finance to keep these crops alive.
Slide 5: Some scientists feel that by using genetically modified crops, food supplies can be generated which can meet the needs of the global population. Using this technology, proponents of GM foods hope to provide a better quality of life for all people in the world.
Slide 6: Many of the genetic alterations made to crops provide a resistance to pesticides and herbicides, which allow farmers to use chemicals which will not harm the plant but still get rid of plants or insect which impede the growth of the desired crop. What do we know about chemicals and how they can effect the environment?
Slide 7: While GM foods are provided the genes to survive, many feel that genetic modification of foods is unethical for health, environmental, and political reasons.
Slide 8: GM foods are relatively new, and not much research has been done regarding what long term effects they might have on humans or animals that consume them. Some reports of increased allergic reactions in populations consuming GM foods have been reported. Also, environmentally, some people claim that GM foods might pollinate similar non engineered plants which might create herbicide resistant weeds. Also, claims of increased pesticide use have been reported due to the resistance of the desired crop. Lastly, some insect resistant crops produce pollen which has been accused of diminishing monarch butterfly populations.
Slide 9: Politically, many are concerned that corporations which produce GM seeds will corner the world market, creating a situation where the producers of this product control the price. How can we keep this technology strictly humanitarian, free of economic politics?
Slide 10: Are GM foods good or bad? Do we have the right to alter the DNA of food for the good of mankind? Are the health and environmental concerns legitimate? If so, is it worth the cost to feed the world? Who can we trust? Corporations who create GM seed tell us that they can end world hunger, while groups such as green peace warn us of the negative effects that GM foods can have on our population. You decide.
September 22nd, 2010 at 9:51 pm
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September 29th, 2010 at 10:29 pm
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