Biotechnology + Art

This week’s topic is very interesting because of the fascinating yet controversial concepts that derive from the advancements between art and biotechnology. For example, genetically modified food poses questions of safety and health factors of the food but it accounts for farming and producing crops much more time effectively. As for animal experimentation, it poses the question whether it is ethically right or wrong though many interesting results have come from these experiments. 

Since the introduction of genetically modified organisms they have been a source of controversy. In my opinion, though experiments used on animals can be interesting; they can be harmful and serve no purpose or contribution to society. Just like the experiment of the jellyfish luminescent gene. While it is used on animals for the purpose of research to study biological processes and disease, it was also used by artist Eduardo Kac solely for the purpose of art known as “transgenic art.” This is where ethical implications come into question while experimenting with genetic engineering: is it right or wrong? Though Kac clearly does care for his “GFP bunny” Alba and provides her with the care needed, even after listing his explanation for his transgenic artwork, I as well as many animal activists will agree that there is really no sensible reason for him to alter the natural order of animals for this purpose. Though, I do agree and understand using biotechnology for beneficial research purposes that continue to make a difference in our medical field and society.

Shown above is different statistics regarding GMO's

Genetically modified foods are another aspect of biotechnology that has also caused a major controversy amongst consumers. People consume GMO’s daily without even being aware of it. It is estimated that sixty percent to seventy-five percent of processed food generally found in local grocery stores and restaurants are genetically modified (Feature). On one hand, advocates claim that genetically engineering technology can increase food supply, use fewer pesticides and herbicides, increase the nutrition benefits, and are more durable then other plants but on the other hand GMO activists argue that genetically modified foods cause health risks, introduce allergens and contaminants to food, create super weeds and other environmental threats.

Though there are positive and negative aspects to GMO’s, biotech engineer’s main goal is to create solutions to starvation and issues following food production.

Overall, there are imperfections in all areas of life and as genetically modifying technology continues to advance it will also continue to adapt and grow and more knowledge will be created to use this technology to better our society as a whole.

Works Cited:

Feature, WebMD. "Genetically Modified Foods (Biotech Foods) Pros and Cons." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 05.

"Genetically Engineered Foods – Why the Controversy?" Genetically Engineered Foods   – Why the Controversy? The Real Truth, n.d. Web. 

Vesna, Victoria. “5 Bioart Part 1.” Online video. YouTube. UC Online, Web.