You are viewing a free preview of this lesson.
Subscribe to unlock all 10 lessons in this course and every other course on LearningBro.
Genetic technology — including genetic engineering and gene therapy — has enormous potential to improve human lives. However, it also raises significant concerns. In this lesson we evaluate the benefits, risks and ethical issues surrounding genetic technology.
Genetically modified (GM) crops have been grown commercially since the mid-1990s. They offer several advantages:
GM crops can be engineered to grow faster, produce more grain or fruit, or be more efficient at photosynthesis. This helps feed a growing world population.
Bt crops produce their own insecticidal protein, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Less pesticide use | Reduces costs for farmers and exposure to chemicals |
| Less environmental damage | Fewer chemicals entering waterways and soil |
| Higher crop survival | Fewer plants lost to insect damage |
Some GM crops are engineered to tolerate specific herbicides (e.g., glyphosate-tolerant soybean). Farmers can spray the herbicide to kill weeds without harming the crop. This simplifies weed management.
Subscribe to continue reading
Get full access to this lesson and all 10 lessons in this course.