Genetically Modified Foods

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the pros and cons of genetically modified (GM)foods. The paper looks at one view that considers these foods as being an environmental and health risk and the contrasting view that it is the best hope of survival for millions of people in underdeveloped regions. The paper then argues that both views have merit and that a third more accommodating view should be adopted with regard to GM foods. The paper concludes by asking for a cautious approach to the problem as it carries many 'unknowns' and may not be worth the risk.

From the Paper:

"We should therefore take cognizance of these warnings. They cannot simply be waived away as just alarmist speculation. It was not so long ago that DDT, an insecticide that was for many years considered to be safe, was found to affect human breast milk and was banned from public use in 1972. We should therefore heed scientists who claim that, "we aren't yet sure what kinds of effects these foods could have on humans, on similar plants, or on the environment. Until we're sure, they should be avoided."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Balko, R. Genetically Modified Food: An Environmental Risk, or Millions' Best Hope for Survival? A World Connected. July 27. 2004. Http://www.aworldconnected.org/article.php/483.html
• May. R. Office of Science and Technology. Genetically modified foods: Facts, worries, policies and public confidence. July 27. 2004. http://www.ost.gov.uk/policy/issues/gm_food.htm
• Lundren, K. Frankenfoods" or Brave New World? The genetically engineered foods question. July 27, 2004. http://www.infoplease.com/spot/frankenfoods1.html

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