Negative Effects of Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering is the modification of an organism’s genetic composition by artificial means, often involving the transfer of specific traits, or genes, from one organism into a plant or animal of an entirely different species. Genetic engineering offers the promise of such things as cures for disease and the creation of a better world. However, although some people believe that humans will be able to use the powers given by new biotechnologies to create an enlightened society, it is more likely that they will be used for destructive purposes. “If genetic engineers can discover how to redesign human beings, the result will be people with the worst characteristics of humanity. At that point, equipped with the new powers conferred by biotechnology, we will be what [Russian Communist leader Vladimir] Lenin could only dream of becoming—engineers of souls (Gray).” “Humanity will be unable to reach a global consensus on the uses of genetic engineering, and the development of science and technology will continue to be controlled by economic and military interests, as they have been throughout history. The insidious weapons created through biotechnology will be used in wars of unimaginable brutality (Gray).”

Genetic engineering will be used for destructive purposes because of the technology available. “The military uses of biotechnology could pose a threat comparable to nuclear war (Gray).” In the context of applications of genetic engineering in human life, misuse of this technology in the production of biological warfare or weapons is a very major disadvantage. Compared to normal warfare, nuclear warfare can be vastly more destructive in extent of damage, and in a much shorter time frame. A major nuclear exchange would have long-t...

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... engineered plant varieties have been developed (Plant Genetic Engineering).” Genetic changes in a particular plant or animal might render it harmful to another organism higher up in the food chain and this effect may build up to destroy the entire food chain in which that plant plays a role.

Although many outcomes of genetic engineering can be considered positive because they benefit humankind, genetic engineering has much more disadvantages which pose a much more negative effect on society. If humankind cannot come to an agreement on genetic engineering then the result could be a war much more destructive than wars like World War II. “Genetic engineering also brings with it concerns over intellectual property, and patenting of created animals and/or techniques used to create them (Hormany, et al).” Genetic engineering should be banned regardless of the benefits.