Another major reason for genetic engineering is the benefits on crops. Genetically modified crops have an increased “shelf life enabling the tomatoes to be stored for longer periods of time” (Bio Factsheet Number 69- Examples of genetically modified crops Page 3). This has benefits to both the producer and consumer as products, such as tomatoes, can be left on sale longer and also once the consumer has bought them, they will be able to be consumed within a lengthened period of time. Another benefit of is that they have higher yields, therefore not only can crops last longer, but more can be produced to meet consumer demand. This important for British farmers if they are wanting to sell their products abroad. Also GM crops can be “grown in areas of famine where there is poor rainfall”. (Bio Factsheet Number 69 Page 3). This is important as it means developing countries have a better chance of being self sufficient.
The Guide to Biotechnology (Page 3) states that it is possible with “genetic modification to improve existing proteins, usually enzymes, and to create proteins not found in nature”. This is important as the enzymes can be adapted to work at lower temperatures than chemical catalysts. The main benefit I believe this has is that it saves energy, which means that it is better for the environment and also the producers of the enzymes as they will be able to make reactions happened at lower temperatures and save money.
I must also consider the reasons against the use of genetic engineering. Some people believe that genetic engeering is being used as “justification to turn the environment into a giant experiment by commercial interests”. (Say no to genetic engineering Page 1). Even though I agree with genetic engineering I can understand the idea that it can be dangerous, as the pollen of GM crops “may be blown onto food plants of other beneficial insects resulting in their death”. (Bio Factsheet Number 69 Page 3). As a result, it reasonable to suggest “the segregation of genetically engineered crops and seeds from conventional ones”. (Say no to genetic engineering Page 1). If insects are being killed due to the insecticides properties of some GM crops, it is a problem as insects can play a vital part in food chains. This means that plants rely on insects to pollinate may not be able to do so. I believe this is the most important argument against genetic engineering.
Another reason against genetic is that the “ creation of ‘transgenic’ organisms, where a short section of genetic material from an unrelated species can be introduced to another” is not moral and the results are not always effective. (What is genetic engineering? Page 2/3). If the desired result will only be achieved sometimes, then it is reasonable to suggest that genetic engineering is too much of a risk.
Religious groups have taken different stances on genetic engineering and as an atheist I must say that some seem unsupported. Jews are divided on the topic as they prone to Tay Sachs disease. “ The disease is controlled by a pair of genes on chromosome 15. If both genes are inactive the person has the disease and dies very young”. (Genetic Engeering Page 1) Genetic engineering is the only way to cure the disease by “artificial conception”. (Genetic Engineering Page 2) I believe that genetic engineering should be used to cure this disease and that it should be left up to the individual to decided to use genetically modified genes to replaced pathogenic ones.
