Essay Preview: Gmos
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GMO Speech
Thesis – GMOs are ethically immoral and cause a threat to human growth in a variety of different ways.
Genetic modification (GM) is the process by which DNA make up is perfected and altered. This procedure is completed by combining genes from other organisms. It may even involve the combining of plant genes with animal genes. The results of this process are also known as GMOs, genetically modified organisms. In recent discovery, geneticists have learned to genetically modify many products of our daily life such as medicines, foods, and vaccines. Many would say that it is immoral and wrong. These products are hidden with no label and have never been approved by any government agencies. During my research, I have read about several tests and studies that suggest potential for various harmful side effects. GMOs are ethically immoral and cause a threat to human growth in a variety of different ways.
Many nations believe that producing GM product will improve the worlds economics. They believe GMOs can improve the agricultural economy by increasing quantities and decreasing growing time. Also, GM foods are said to be disease resistant. This is possible because the food is modified to resist the poisons of herbicides and pesticides. Some plants have pesticide and herbicide fluid genetically added to protect them, allowing farmers to save billions of dollars by to reducing the money spent on pesticides and herbicides. Will GMOs feed the world and make many people rich? Are GMOs a panacea?
You may all be wondering why GM products are a problem. Why would we remove GM products when they could help us so much? The reason why GM products should be eliminated is simply because every benefit creates a greater problem in the long run. I would like to begin with some discussion about moral principles. When scientists or geneticists begin changing the genetic make up and add chemicals and substances that could not other wise be incorporated naturally, that is interrupting Mother Nature. In simpler words, plant genes and animal genes are not suppose to be combined. They are two completely different organisms altogether. These scientists are “playing god”; affecting nature unnaturally. Morally, GM is offensive and numerous people disagree with its proceedings. As I stated before, all of the benefits lead to larger problems on a bigger scale. Agriculturally, the reduced growing time allows more food products to enter the market quicker, meaning more food can be sent to starving countries. This creates a problem because if we begin feeding millions of starving people without addressing the other systems that societies depend on, we will not have improved their life. For example, more food without a population control strategy and effective medical and employment systems in place will not result in improving the quality of life in starving nations. I mentioned earlier that GM products are more disease resistant because they are genetically modified to withstand the insects and chemicals farmers use. This is an issue because GM products have never actually been tested for any possible problems they may pose to each individual consumer. Cornell University conducted a study with BT corn pollen (a GM corn product). They fed this product to Monarch butterflies and 50 percent died. During my research I also learned of a UK government-funded experiment recorded that rats fed with GM potatoes developed “potentially precancerous cell growth, damaged immune systems, partial atrophy of the liver and inhibited development of their brains, liver and testicles”. These GM foods are dangerous to humans and animals. GM technology is new and only highly respected, very experienced geneticists can perform this process. So because of this, only the more advanced countries can produce these GM products because they are the ones with the scientists. This is a problem because it will lead to only a handful of food companies gaining control of the market. This gives the industrialized countries more power and control over developing nations.
GM products are an undeveloped technology born too soon. For every benefit there is a down side. GM foods may feed starving masses but they may not be safe to eat. They may be cost effective but create a worldwide imbalance of power. Many claim they will help humanity but they arent morally accepted. As Prime Minister Tony Blair said, “There is no doubt that there is potential for harm, both in terms of human safety and in the diversity of our environment, from GM foods and crops.”
Thesis: GMOs are ethically immoral and cause a threat to human growth in a variety of different ways.
I. What are GMOs?
A. Genetically modified organisms