You are here:  Home > Genetic Technology
University of Bristol
Wellcome Trust
Recommended by:
Society of Biology
PEEP for Physics & Ethics at GCSE
 

Genetic Technology

Here are the opening paragraphs from two websites introducing genetic engineering – which one is Greenpeace and which is Monsanto?

1. Open quoteToday, biotechnology holds out promise for consumers seeking quality, safety and taste in their food choices; for farmers seeking new methods to improve their productivity and profitability; and for governments and non-governmental public advocates seeking to stave off global hunger, assure environmental quality, preserve bio-diversity and promote health and food safety.Close quote

2. Open quoteGenetic engineering enables scientists to create plants, animals and micro-organisms by manipulating genes in a way that does not occur naturally. These genetically modified organisms (GMO) can spread through nature and interbreed with natural organisms, thereby contaminating non 'GE' environments and future generations in an unforeseeable and uncontrollable way. Their release is 'genetic pollution' and is a major threat because GMOs cannot be recalled once released into the environment.Close quote


When faced with issues of genetic engineering (GE) we have an extra question - Can we afford to get it wrong? - as well as whether or not GE is morally "right".

Key GE technologies are:

 

 

IN THIS SECTION

CLONING
Cloned fluffy yellow chicks.

GM CROPS
GM barley

GM PROTEINS
Part of an AAT molecule


USEFUL WEBSITE

ExploreDNA