Week 6: Biotechnology & Art

This week's topic centers on biotechnology to produce art, which is contentious as it raises whether genetically modifying organisms is ethical (Vesna). Biotechnology can be conducive, but we need to monitor its operation closely.  

Genetically modified organisms are living organisms with their genetic material modified artificially (The Non-GMO Project). Such anthropogenic project typically takes place in a laboratory. When we weigh its benefits and drawbacks, we can look at the example of genetically modified crops. By altering the genetic sequence of produce, there are several advantages that humans can reap that are not present in organic crops (Bridges).

On the other hand, negative consequences arise for genetically modified animals (included in organisms). For example, by mixing various parts of genomes within animals, new diseases may emerge, spreading to nonmodified organisms and affecting their health (Yourgenome). Moreover, numerous genetically modified embryos may succumb. An extreme example is when a scientist from China produced genetically modified human embryos with a higher risk of premature death (Krämer). Therefore, experimenting on animals, including humans, is where I define the boundary. It is unethical to experiment on living organisms out of control over the decision to be tested. However, there is a gray area because plants are living organisms.

Works cited

  Bridges, Meagan. “Genetically Engineered Foods: Medlineplus Medical Encyclopedia.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Aug. 2020, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002432.htm. 

"GMO Facts - the Non-GMO Project.” The Non-GMO Project - Everyone Deserves an Informed Choice, The Non-GMO Project., 24 Sept. 2021, https://www.nongmoproject.org/gmo-facts/#:~:text=Genetically%20modified%20organisms%20(GMOs)%20are,or%20through%20traditional%20crossbreeding%20methods. 

"Is it ethical to Genetically Modify Farm Animals for Agriculture?” Yourgenome, The Public Engagement Team at the Wellcome Genome Campus, 21 July 2021, https://www.yourgenome.org/debates/is-it-ethical-to-genetically-modify-farm-animals-for-agriculture#:~:text=The%20transfer%20of%20genetic%20material,engineered%20animals%2C%20and%20even%20humans. 

Krämer, Katrina. “Study Claiming Gene-Edited Babies Were More Likely to Die Young Was Wrong.” Chemistry World, Chemistry World, 15 Nov. 2019, https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/study-claiming-gene-edited-babies-were-more-likely-to-die-young-was-wrong/4010546.article. 

Rinkesh, Kukreja. “Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's).” Conserve Energy Future, Conserve Energy Future, 6 Nov. 2020, https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/pros-cons-gmos.php. 

Venssa, Victoria, director. 5 Bioart pt1 1280x720, YouTube, 18 Sept. 2013, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaThVnA1kyg&t=159s. Accessed 6 May 2022.