Genetically Modified Organisms

Due to an intricate web of psychological, socio-political and economic factors, an alliance of ill-advised forces of radical activism and powerful commercial interests encourage the rejection of so-called “genetically modified organisms” (GMOs), that is agri-food products whose DNA has been directly retouched, or “recombined” (rDNA).

While the pseudo-concept has no scientific meaning, the opponents of the agro-industry insist on attacking it as an alleged symbol of the exploitation of nature for greed and profit: this socio-political struggle, in itself legitimate, but directed at the wrong target, fosters doubts and fears about the supposed negative effects of GMOs on the environment and health. Instead, scientists recommend carefully checking new individual plant varieties or animal breeds, regardless of how they are obtained (through rDNA or other processes). Similarly, the important socio-economic pros and cons of the cultivation and consumption of agri-food novelties, in richer or poorer countries as well, should be assessed independently of the developers’ biotech methods.

The book explains this contemporary taboo and calls for a well-regulated use of all biotechnological innovations, ending the decades-long quagmire which stymies public research and its philanthropic repercussions.