What Is Monsanto's Ethical Reasoning?

Ethical Reasoning (Con)

On the flip side, those who are anti-GMO argue that genetically modified crops such as corn and soybeans are causing harm to the environment around them. Corn, soybeans, and alfalfa are all genetically modified to resist certain pests and other dangers. “The GM version of field corn protects the crop against corn rootworms and the Asian corn borer” ( What Foods are…). The GM soybean plant is resistant to pests and disease as well as tolerant of herbicides that are most effective, allowing for less herbicides use overall. Along with this, alfalfa is genetically engineered with herbicides that reduce weeds and protect against smaller pests. However, Advocates for the environment are concerned that the increasing use of

Many pro-GMO activists such as farmers, scientists, companies that profit off of GMOs (Monsanto), and avid unbiased consumers appeal to the factual and statistical evidence that GMOs provide. Some might be wondering what is Monsanto and what do they do. Monsanto company is a publicly traded American multinational agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology corporation. They are the leading company in researching along with experimenting GMOs and their effects whether they be beneficial or negative. “Yield can be increased by breeding and through the addition of GM traits. Germplasm improvements from traditional breeding have contributed to modest but steady increases in yield. Marker-assisted breeding has nearly doubled the rate of yield gain when compared to traditional breeding alone” (Monsanto). This is not the only evidence that Monsanto boasts. Since 1996, on average, the volume of herbicide used on corn and soybeans has dropped 2o percent since herbicide tolerant corn has been introduced. There has even been reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with GM crops for 2006 is estimated to be equal to removing more than half a million cars from the road. For those people that value statistics in an argument becoming pro-GMO seems very compelling especially when India’s cotton yield has increased by nearly 50 percent ever since they adopted insect resistant cotton. This seems to be the

Which is why both sides bring in specialists or people who’s professions align with this topic such as Horticulturalists, Biochemists, Bioengineers, and Farmers. In Best Food Facts article “What Foods are Genetically Modified?” they bring in Doctor Kevin Folta who has a Doctorate in Horticulture and is a widely renowned specialist within the agricultural industry. Or even National Geographics lead reporter, Rebecca Rupp, who specializes in analyzing agricultural topics and presents the statistics and evidence needed for the reader to take their stance. Both of these professionals are respected in their line of work and add credibility to these sources arguments. Which in turn makes the pro-GMO arguments trustable and compelling. Folta and Rupp’s knowledge and expertise aid in the development in each argument by adding in statistics and factual evidence. Yet, there must always be a professional that disagrees. Although, I didn’t necessarily speak much of them Moseley and Tagliabue both play their part in the industry and give their thought to why GMOs aren't a solution and are a risky and concerning attempt at fixing a worldly