I have no problem with the idea of GM crops. Most of the arguments against them are based on ignorance rather than on knowledge.
I certainly disagree with the patent system that is applied to them. Research into GM foods should be publicly funded, and aimed at utilising the technology for the public good, rather than for coporate profit.
What is important to understand is that GM crops are the latest in a series of agricultural innovations that have been continuing since the dawn of the human race. It is those innovations that have kept the human race from falling into a Malthusian trap. They will be absolutely essential should population growth start to accelerate again.
The modified genes can only spread into natural relatives of plants used for crops, not into weeds or anything else. I don't really see the problem. If people remain scared, however, then it should be possible to use GM technology to make interbreeding impossible (or as unlikely as it is in nature).
The whole question of GM crops also fades into insignificance when we consider the very real possibility of GM humans. It's not a case of if, but when.
I certainly disagree with the patent system that is applied to them. Research into GM foods should be publicly funded, and aimed at utilising the technology for the public good, rather than for coporate profit.
What is important to understand is that GM crops are the latest in a series of agricultural innovations that have been continuing since the dawn of the human race. It is those innovations that have kept the human race from falling into a Malthusian trap. They will be absolutely essential should population growth start to accelerate again.
The modified genes can only spread into natural relatives of plants used for crops, not into weeds or anything else. I don't really see the problem. If people remain scared, however, then it should be possible to use GM technology to make interbreeding impossible (or as unlikely as it is in nature).
The whole question of GM crops also fades into insignificance when we consider the very real possibility of GM humans. It's not a case of if, but when.
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