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The Pros And Cons Of Genetic Engineering

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Genetic engineering is a fairly new technology, yet it was developed off of the old practice of artificial selection. It is a step forward in the way humans modify other species, and a cause for both excitement and a small amount of concern. Artificial selection is the process of breeding two adults that both posses desired traits together, so that the offspring will have more of the desired traits than the previous generation. Genetic engineering is the process of removing a gene from one species and implanting it into the DNA of another, so that there is precise control over which traits a species will possess. Both technologies are used to alter a species to better serve humans’ needs. However, they differ in that artificial selection can only cross species that are sexually compatible, and only using traits already present within the species. Comparatively, genetic engineering allows any gene to be implanted into a species, regardless of where it comes from …show more content…

Artificial selection has been around for centuries and has greatly increased the diversity within plant and animal species around the world. It is thought that almost all the food we eat has been selectively bred to create a superior strain of the plant or animal, making it larger and tastier. One of the downsides to artificial selection includes the increased vulnerability of crops to disease and environmental changes. Genetic engineering can help overcome some of the challenges with plant species, as it enables the creation of plants that are far more resistant to bacteria and pests. However, genetic engineering has been around for a fraction of the time, and is still fairly untested. This also means that genetic engineering has had a much lesser effect on biodiversity. Yet, the potential for growth and innovation in genetic engineering means that crops can be altered much faster, and in more significant ways, promising an interesting

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