Free Essays,College Free Essays,Free College Essays at Anti Essays

What is genetic engineering? Genetic engineering is the direct modification of an organisms genes by either manipulation of genes or replacement of genes. Genetic engineering began in 1865 and this day in age enables scientists to create plants, animals and micro-organisms by manipulating genes in a way that does not occur naturally. There is potential in the research of genes although the risks created by developments in technologies surrounding genetic engineering overshadow the possible benefits. There need to be limits set to the amount of research and testing of genetics otherwise nature and humans will lose diversity and the world will become similar to what was depicted in the movie “Gattaca”.

Genetic engineering has the potential to become disastrous if it gets out of control and the proper limits are disregarded. Food is a good example of the results of genetic engineering and limits because there is a huge difference between adding a scarce vitamin to some rice and producing a toxin from a corn crop that goes on to kill millions of insects and larvae. Genetically engineering of the food we eat is an inherently risky process because the current understanding of genetics is extremely limited and scientists do not know the long term effects of releasing these unpredictable organisms into the environment and people's diets. Is it natural to adjust the properties of food that has kept us alive for so long? Many organisations including different religious groups, political parties and supermarket chains are leading the charge against genetic engineering because they know the dangers if the techniques used on food are transferred to humans. Imagine a future where you miss out on sharing deep intimate feelings for your loved one through sexual intercourse because your child won’t be as valid as others. Instead the parents design their children, who become something of a fashion item, just like designer shoes. Even further down the track there...