Genetically Modified Organisms
Andre Thomas
Soc/215
10-14-15
Dr. Melisha Plummer
Genetically Modified Organisms
Much has been written about genetically modified organisms. These are commonly known as GMOs. Genetically modified organisms have some positive attributes. However, GMOs also have adverse effects on animals, the environment and the health of the consumer.
In order to understand why GMOs have these effects, it is important to know exactly what a GMO is and how these differ from the normal breeding farmers have done for years. The Free Dictionary defines a GMO as “An organism whose genetic characteristics have been altered using the techniques of genetic engineering.” It goes on to explain that modern science has the ability to modify the genetic makeup of plants and animals. Scientists can even transfer genes from one species to another. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/genetically+modified+organism Advocates of genetically modified organisms say that the use of the gmos could end world hunger they also say we could create plants and animals that are resistant to disease and tolerant to pesticides. They can also engineer plants to be drought resistant. They argue these changes would stop famine because the plants could naturally resist. The proponents use pathos to convince people they have the answer to world hunger. They show you pictures starving people around the world and tell you their “improved” seeds make hunger go away. Perhaps it could but the studies do not prove that yet. In fact, the only feeding study done with humans showed that GMOs survived inside the stomach of the people eating GMO food. This does not mean it is safe for our consumption. No other follow-up studies were done to determine the long term effects on humans. Instead the studies flash warning signs not to use gmos.
