In previous times, genetic engineering has proven successful in modifying both crops and humans. A recent study displayed the positive effects of biotech varieties on food and fiber production within the state. The findings revealed a considerable increase of over 10 million pounds. Furthermore, it resulted in a boost of farm income by nearly $33 million and a significant decrease in pesticide usage, amounting to 776,000 pounds per year (Hammertoes 124). It is worth noting that most soybeans currently grown have been genetically engineered to withstand an herbicide known as glasshouse (Roller 1). This genetic alteration allows soybeans to flourish without being affected by weeds.
The advantages of genetic engineering extend beyond plants to human lives. The direct manipulation of the human genome has led to benefits such as the treatment of Parkinson's disease using gene therapy (Roller 43). This has signifi
...cantly improved the lives of individuals by alleviating impaired motor skills and speech. Genetic engineering also holds the potential to enhance human capabilities, such as having a faster learning mind or a stronger immune system (Bistros 26).
These are just a few instances showcasing how genetic engineering has positively impacted humanity. However, along with its notable benefits, genetic engineering also carries significant risks. If the modification is executed incorrectly, the consequences could be irreparable. For instance, a study conducted on animals demonstrated that the improper regulation of a normal gene led to the modification of the animal without any noticeable developmental effects, but increased tumor occurrence in adulthood (Hall 162).
Although there is concern about the widespread use of methods to improve humans, as they may unintentionally or intentionally result in quasi-human or
subhuman outcomes (Hall 164), another reason for hesitancy is the belief that it is a satanic act of disbelief and corruption that goes against God's creation of human beings (Echidna 190).
Some individuals express ethical concerns regarding the overuse of cloning and genetic engineering technology, fearing that it may lead to the deterioration of social and familial values (Echidna 192). These concerns have prompted some people to oppose the use of these technologies and instead advocate for safer and more widely accepted methods of disease treatment and crop production. However, relying solely on traditional methods may have limitations in advancing humanity.
Occasionally, taking risks becomes necessary to facilitate genuine progress and allow humanity to take significant strides towards a brighter future. The potential of this technology encompasses capabilities such as the eventual creation of replacement kidneys within a span of 5 to 10 years, the realization of liver replacement within 10 to 15 years, and the possibility of manufacturing entire hearts for reimplementation in due course (Histamine 37). In fact, armed with this newfound knowledge, it may become feasible to formulate drugs that can impede inflammation caused by viral infections and potentially even provide a cure for AIDS (Histamine 35).
Histamine (34) suggests that there is a high probability of new drugs being developed within the next six to seven years for diseases that currently lack treatment options. Roller (14) states that the primary goal of gene therapy is to rectify or replace faulty or missing genes with healthy ones, thereby providing a cure for the patient's illness. Consequently, by maximizing the utilization of this technology, it is possible to render diseases obsolete and allow
individuals to lead longer and more satisfying lives.
The possibility of enhancing plant life also applies. According to multiple tests conducted by scientists and experts, it is apparent that GM technology has the potential to increase maize output fourfold, sweet potato output more than threefold, and banana output eightfold (Hamburg 84). If these crop increases are multiplied across all farms globally, humanity can eliminate world hunger and ensure an abundance of food, relieving concerns of starvation or hunger.
Although there are concerns regarding the safety of genetically modified foods, it is crucial to acknowledge that rigorous testing is carried out to guarantee their safety (Hamburg 82). In reality, there is no proof indicating that genetically engineered foods currently available in the market present any human health concerns or are less safe than conventionally bred foods (Hammertoes 122). Consequently, any potential health risks are detected and resolved before these foods become available for purchase by consumers.
Considering the possible advantages and realistic attainability of these benefits, it is evident that taking the associated risks would be highly beneficial. Although resolving the genetic engineering debate is not straightforward, there are ways to find compromises that support progress while mitigating the potential risks associated with gene modification. One such compromise is allowing individuals to decide for themselves whether they want to consume genetically modified crops or have genetically modified organs.
According to Bistros (25), some parents may find it easier to love a child who, through enhancements, possesses qualities such as intelligence, physical attractiveness, good health, and happiness. The freedom to choose can be used to eliminate debates so that decisions about genetically modified foods are no
different from choices about vegetarianism. Additionally, it has been argued by Echidna (196) that affluent nations have a responsibility to share both their material and scientific resources with underprivileged countries that primarily need assistance in treating common diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis.
An alternative approach is to utilize this technology exclusively for medical purposes when all other alternatives have been exhausted and deemed necessary by experts, as is the case with "lawful male-female relationship to address infertility" (Echidna 195). Once genetic engineering is employed at its most fundamental level, its immense potential for reducing avoidable human suffering becomes evident (Bistros 27). Although these solutions are not flawless, they can facilitate a future where genetic engineering can be fully implemented without scrutiny.
In spite of the difficulties faced, genetic engineering has proven its potential to save lives and enhance quality of life. This is accomplished by manipulating crops and the human genome. By utilizing current technology and established practices in medicine and agriculture, significant progress can be achieved globally in the near future. Despite existing risks, they are overshadowed by the accomplishments already made in gene modification and the promising future achievements that await.
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