Genetic Engineering

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that what is called "genetic engineering" has been accomplished for centuries via cross-breeding; however, the risk with GE is that genes can be combined in ways never before possible and with possibly unpredictable results. The author points out that (1) GE often benefits society by producing new materials, (2) plants can be produced that grow more vigorously, produce more food and are more resistant to insects and other crop-reducing problems and, (3) possibly the most compelling one, is that we can benefit medically from its use. The paper reports that the fundamental principle of the ethical standards for GE is that the likely benefits must outweigh the likely risks.

Table of Contents
Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
Annotated Bibliography

From the Paper:

"Other concerns involve the role genes play in who we are. While some believe that all of human health, illness and even behavior are driven by genes, others recognize that the external environment in which the human resides affects gene actions, including whether they switch on or switch off certain proteins. Those actions affect how the gene affects the body. Nature and nurture often work together, even when genetics play a strong role in a medical problem. Some sociologists are calling for a new sub-discipline of medical sociology, which they would call "genetic sociology," to monitor and evaluate the effects of GE on society. This might be a good idea for all uses of GE, and not just for medical uses. It would be hubris to assume that we can predict all possible outcomes from gene manipulation."

More papers on Genetic Engineering:

• Essay # 70378 : "Genetic Engineering"
• Analytical Essay # 140054 : "Is Genetic Engineering Anthropocentic"
• Term Paper # 135911 : "Genetic Engineering and Healthcare"
• Analytical Essay # 119193 : "The Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering"

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