Genetically Modified Foods: Debating Biotechnology

Complete with a glossary and suggestions for further reading, this outstanding collection of recently published and brand new articles serves as a comprehensive introduction and a very useful reference work to an important technology with worldwide social consequences.

The rapidly advancing field of biotechnology is developing powerful techniques for manipulating the fundamentals of life, including the food we eat. These developments are hailed by some as welcome new methods of improving the nutritional value of our food and of ensuring that it is protected from disease and pests. Others are vehemently opposed to this scientific tampering with nature in its pristine state and fear that dire consequences, like unforeseen new diseases or environmental catastrophes, will result from the creation of ?Franken-foods.?

This lively collection of authoritative articles encompasses the many points of contention in the debate. The editors set the context by organizing the essays to deal first with the history and the science of genetically modified foods. The next section focuses on the morality of modifying organisms for human use. What factors should be considered in making value judgments about this technology? Succeeding sections include articles discussing religious attitudes toward genetically modified food, legal issues involving patenting and environmental damage, risk assessment, and possible environmental threats and benefits.