Summary
Biotechnology is the manipulation of a living organism to increase its usefulness. Though it is commonly thought of as a modern practice, it actually began when the early farming civilizations began choosing which crops to plant annually. In recent decades, however, biotechnology has undergone drastic changes due to advances in genetic engineering. Scientists can now alter the DNA of living organisms. Although gene manipulation could address certain health concerns and alleviate the problem of world hunger through engineered crops, some worry about the ethical dilemmas, the possibility of discrimination and eugenics, and unforeseen environmental problems from such radical interference.
Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering expertly explains why biotechnology is a relevant and volatile issue. Part I begins with a history of biotechnology and its effect on agriculture, medicine, and the environment. The second chapter focuses on the United States, with emphasis on recent progress and new applications. Equal time is spent discussing the efforts of human rights advocates, animal rights advocates, and environmentalists to create definitive governmental regulations for this budding industry. The third chapter looks at how biotechnology has impacted the world, providing case studies of its history and current role in Japan, India, Germany, and South Africa. Part II draws together significant U.S. and international primary source documents and part III gathers useful research tools.
Specifications
Maps. Index. Bibliography. Glossary. Chronology. Tables and charts.
About the Author(s)
Kathy Wilson Peacock is a professional writer and editor. She is the author of Natural Resources and Sustainable Development, another volume in Facts On File's Global Issues series, and she has also contributed articles to Encyclopedia of Major Marketing Campaigns, Gale's Literature Community Newsletter, Poetry for Students, Shakespeare for Students, and Contemporary Authors Online. Her articles have appeared in Publishers Weekly; Salon; and Brain, Child magazine.
Charles Hagedorn III holds a Ph.D. in microbiology and is currently professor of crop and soil environmental studies at the University of Virginia. He has received numerous honors for his work, including an Outstanding Service Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for service on the Biotechnology Science Advisory Committee.