Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO): Profit, Power and Geopolitics

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO): Profit, Power and Geopolitics

Written By Colin Todhunter

Date Published: December 15, 2014

http://www.globalresearch.ca/genetically-modified-organisms-gmo-profit-power-and-geopolitics/5419873

Summary:

The use of genetic modification has turned into a political business. The larger corporations such as Monsanto are playing a monopoly on poor farmers in third world countries who are struggling to feed their families. These giant companies are able to do so via royalties, and in essence, force farmers to purchase specific seeds that they cannot afford. This greatly impacts the economies of second and third world countries as farming and agriculture are the staple industries there. These large companies claim that genetically modified crops and the usage of their specific chemicals will produce an increased yield, therefore benefitting the farmers who buy it. However true that might be, they have not included the toll on the environment and the cost of human health. These chemicals may seem more beneficial for increasing marginal profits. The reason for why these chemicals and crops are being sold in the third world countries is because the people in these countries want to represent first world countries. It has become the norm in first world countries to consume food that is not naturally grown, so naturally, second and third world countries would like to follow in suit. However, as the article warns, these chemicals will bring to the destruction of our planet and health. First world countries must take the lead and stop using these genetically modified organisms in order to save our planet. 

How this relates to class:
We learned about the science behind using genetically modified food and actually conducted an experiment where we tested whether or not a common food that was sold in major supermarkets was genetically modified. From this lab, we found that much of the staple crops-corn and soy-were genetically modified. This showed that many of the major biotech companies have a major monopoly over the market and can force their products into the lives of their people. We also learned about how the dangers of using genetically modified organisms, especially to the health of the people. In addition, when we had the genetically modified organism debate, in which we learned both the positive and negative impacts of genetic modification. This is how the article connects to what we have learned in class.