Genetically modified foods Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Genetically modified foods - Research Paper Example As a result, GM could provide solutions to problems of poor, hungry, and marginalized people in developing countries (Weirich, 2007). Yet opponents of the technology are concerned that genetic modification can erode biodiversity, lead to genetic pollution, and cause the evolution of "super bugs" and "super weeds" (Weirich, 2007; Weick and Walchli, 2002). They also raise questions about the health safety of GM food and equity issues relating to the ownership of GM seeds (Weick and Walchli, 2002). Advocates of genetic modification often contend that the risks associated with it do not differ much from risks introduced by conventional breeding. Indeed, in 1990, the International Food Biotechnology Council recommended that GM food plants could be regulated with existing laws and practices and that no additional regulatory measures were needed (Ingenthron, 1991). Some argue, on the other hand, that new biotechnology is qualitatively different from conventional techniques (Victor and Runge, 2002). In conventional breeding, whole blocks of genes are moved by allowing crossovers or meiosis (Lappe and Bailey, 1998). With genetic engineering, only isolated genes carrying specific traits are transferred. Also, genetic engineering allows gene transfer between species that would not naturally exchange genetic material. The later trait makes this new technology revolutionary, as revolutionary as the splitting of the atom. Giddens (2000: 8) called it a quantum leap, both in terms of its p ossible advantages and risks. Like every scientific revolution, GM technology has entered into public debate with its perceived benefits and costs. In 1991, the Office of Technology Assessment stated that biotechnology would contribute to agriculture by: (1) lowering production costs; (2) increasing yields; (3) providing higher-quality food; and (4)

Is death of a salesman an example of what's good, bad, or both of the Essay

Is death of a salesman an example of what's good, bad, or both of the American Dream - Essay Example The characters depict very different opinions about success and American dream. The author portrays the vision of an American dream of Willy, the main character of the play. Willy sees this world purely in materialistic way and according to him success can only be measured through monetary gains. He also considers use of personal relationships important in attaining success in the society. Through the character of Willy Arthur mocks the materialistic nature of American society. Willy once says to his son â€Å"†¦the man who makes an appearance in the business world, the man who creates personal interest, is the man who gets ahead (Miller, 33). This is the version of Willy and this story of success is told by the author in order to show the real face of ‘The American dream’ to the audience. Also the reaction of the society towards Willy is also very important. Throughout the play he is not liked by anyone and not even his customers. Willy only favors personal relati onships in order to gain monetary benefit but he is not successful. He also measures success in terms of tangible things. For these reasons he is not liked by anyone. Arthur has deliberately tried to make Willy like this because he wanted to show the downside of blind ambition for ‘the American dream’. ... They present the idea of success that is consistent with an American dream. It is again a tangible thing with which the materialistic society of America is obsessed. The success of Ben is also an ironic portrayal of the American society as Ben sacrifices all interpersonal relations for his success. He wanted to go see his father (Miller, 48) but instead ended up successful. Charley is the neighbor of Willy and is a respected man. Willy considers him successful because of his humility and nice nature but explicitly always degrades him. Charley can be considered as a real successful person because he does not brag. Also he acts reasonably throughout the play. Charley’s true nature becomes evident when he offers Willy a job. All this shows the good nature of Charley. Biff Loman, son of Willy, portrays a deviant fellow who resists the ideas of success that are believed by his father. He does not agree with his father’s version of American dream and wants to live a happy and a free life. His definition of success widely differs from his father. He says â€Å"Shipping clerk, salesman, business of one kind or another. And it's a measly manner of existence; to devote your whole life to keeping stock, or making phone calls, or selling or buying. When all you really desire is to be outdoors, with your shirt off and still that’s how you build a future† (Miller 22). This shows that Biff identified the fakeness that existed in the American society and tried to change it. Biff wants to travel and enjoy his life. By Biff the author is portraying the rebellion that will come in future. All these characters had different ideas of success. The views of Ben and Willy on success represent materialism. They view success in attainment of ‘the American dream’ and value