Genetic Engineering: the Key to a Better World

John Jones

Eng 1010

10/28/10

Genetic Engineering: The Key to a Better World

      Genetic engineering is the process scientists use to “alter the genetic material of cells or organisms to enable them to make new substances or perform new functions” (Genome ¶19). This process allows scientists to do many things, such as, enhancing the heartiness of crops, developing personalized medications, therapy for disorders, development of crops for higher energy gain, studying infectious diseases and creating vaccines. The benefits of genetic engineering go beyond just the scientific advancements that are possible. Genetic engineering has the ability to influence the quality of life and economy of nations that are dependent on crop exports. Genetic engineering is an issue of serious debate because there are classes of individuals that would oppose genetic engineering because of moral or religious beliefs. Genetic engineering is a good thing because it exemplifies human resourcefulness, it provides the opportunity for mankind to better manage its natural resources, and it allows mankind to be more environmentally conscientious.

      Genetic engineering allows scientists to modify crops to boost their immunity to bacteria and to strengthen crops against climate or environmental changes that aren’t conducive to their growth. “Around the world, thirty five to fifty percent of wheat growing areas are under drought risk. The number of drought affected wheat growing areas is likely to increase with the effects of climate change” (Gene Therapy 156). This statistic shows the opportunities that are present for growth in the area of genetic engineering for economic and food production purposes. In 2008, the newly built three hundred and twenty million dollar Biosciences Research Centre in Victoria, Australia, was able to develop twenty-four lines of genetically modified wheat. From these twenty four lines of wheat there were several lines of wheat that exceeded the...