Abstract

Reference: Nuffield 1999
Title: Genetically Modified Crops: the ethical and social issues
Authors: Nuffield Council on Bioethics. 
Publisher: Nuffield Council on Bioethics, 28 Bedford Square, London UK WC1B 3EG
Publication details: May 1999. 164p 

This report examines the ethical and social issues associated with the development and cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops, particularly in relation to:

• The scientific background and techniques used in genetic modification
• The potential of GM crops
• Commercial and legal implications
• Implications for the developing world
• Consumer concerns
• Environmental concerns
• Regulation and policy issues

The Working Party has examined the ethical issues that are raised by the development and application of GM plant technology in world agriculture and food security. Its perspective on GM crops has been guided by consideration of three main ethical principles: the principle of general human welfare, the maintenance of people’s rights and the principle of justice. Some of these considerations, such as the need to ensure food security for present and future generations, safety for consumers and care of the environment have been straightforward and broadly utilitarian. Others, stemming from the concern that GM crops are ‘unnatural’, have been more complex.

The report concludes that GM crops represent an important new technology that ought to have the potential to do much good in the world provided that proper safeguards are maintained or introduced. All those who are involved in developing the new technology, whether they are researchers in the public sector, in agrochemical or agricultural businesses or farmers, or food manufacturers and retailers need to recognise and accept a broad responsibility to the public. They need to ensure that ethical concerns are taken account of, that their new technologies and products are safe for human consumption and avoid further harm to the environment, that the potential of GM technology is harnessed to meet the most urgent food needs of the world as well as commercial benefit, that impartial information is made widely available to the public and that consumer choice is fully respected.

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