Opinion essay

Genetic Engineering

Positives of genetic engineering
Genetic engineering is the practice of manipulating the genes of an organism
It is used to produce crops that are more resistant to insects and diseases
Some genetically modified crops grow more quickly
Some drugs and vaccines are produced by genetic engineering
It may become possible to change human’s genetic characteristics. Scientists may use genetic engineering to cure diseases.
Inherited illnesses would no longer exist
Genes could be changed before a baby is born
It could also be possible to clone human organs We could all have replacement body part
Humans could live longer, healthier lives


Negatives of genetic engineering
There are ethical concerns about human genetic engineering Parents might want to choose their children’s characteristics This would be unnatural
It would be unacceptable in most religions
Soldiers could be cloned from the genes of the strongest people Clones might be used like robots to do certain jobs
Clones might even be developed just for organ replacements Society and human evolution would change completely Currently, human genetic engineering is prohibited


Genetically-Modified (GM) foods: Advantages
Farmers can produce crops that grow bigger and faster Some GM crops are more resistant to disease or insects
This could be important for food production in developing countries
Faster growing cereals, fruit and vegetables will mean more profit GM foods can be modified to look perfect
They may be more attractive to customers


Genetically-Modified (GM) Foods: Disadvantages
There may be risks involved in the genetic engineering of foods. GM crops might change whole ecosystems
Food chains could be broken if crops are resistant to predators
Organic foods are produced without chemicals or genetic modification Organic farming may be slower and more expensive
However, the environment is not damaged by fertilizers or pesticides.

10.