Week 6 - GMOs and Labelling

Question 1

Give one reason for and against labelling GMO products.

Answer 1

FOR: Why not? We have the right to choose/know
AGAINST: Labels may be viewed as warnings causing fear

Question 2

Why does labelling a product “non-genetically modified” not ensure a product is GMO-free?

Answer 2

In some countries (Canada, US) labelling is voluntary and may have 5% or no threshold for unintended GM materials

Question 3

What are business considerations related to GMO?

Answer 3

• Patent disputes over GMO crops

- If developed countries begin relying on it, then company that owns crop has stronger influence

Question 4

Is gene transfer “unnatural”?

Answer 4

No, several naturally occurring viruses such as retroviruses insert their own DNA into hosts

Question 5

What is the naturalistic fallacy?

Answer 5

Belief that because something is natural, it is good and that unnatural things are bad