Agro-Technology: A Philosophical Introduction (Cambridge Introductions to Philosophy and Biology)
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 7/14/2011
EAN 9780521133753, ISBN10: 0521133750
Paperback, 258 pages, 24.4 x 17 x 1.5 cm
Language: English
Humans have been modifying plants and animals for millennia. The dawn of molecular genetics, however, has kindled intense public scrutiny and controversy. Crops, and the food products which include them, have dominated molecular modification in agriculture. Organisations have made unsubstantiated claims and scare mongering is common. In this textbook Paul Thompson presents a clear account of the significant issues - identifying harms and benefits, analysing and managing risk - which lie beneath the cacophony of public controversy. His comprehensive analysis looks especially at genetically modified organisms, and includes an explanation of the scientific background, an analysis of ideological objections, a discussion of legal and ethical concerns, a suggested alternative - organic agriculture - and an examination of the controversy's impact on sub-Saharan African countries. His book will be of interest to students and other readers in philosophy, biology, biotechnology and public policy.
Introduction
1. Scientific background
2. Application of genetics in agriculture
3. Philosophical and conceptual background
4. The controversy
ideological and theological objections
5. The controversy
purported benefits
6. The controversy
purported harms
7. The organic alternative
8. Impact on low and middle income countries
poverty, farming and colonial legacies
Concluding remarks.