Genetically Modified Foods: Debating Biotechnology (Contemporary Issues Series)

Rating:
Summary: Read this Book, Then...
Review: FIGHT FOR ACADEMIC FREEDOM

Professor Ignacio Chapela courageously spoke out
against the UC $25 million research agreement with
the biotechnology giant Novartis. He published an
article demonstrating that native corn in Mexico had
been contaminated by genetically engineered corn.
Being a prominent critic of the university's ties to
the biotech industry, Dr. Chapela had his tenure
denied despite overwhelming support by his peers at UC
Berkeley and experts around the world.

The implications that these actions have on academic
freedom are frightening. They threaten scientists in
the future from working to seek truth in different
forums without undue influence. Scientists will no
longer be able to ask questions that might seem
uncomfortable even for the university to pose, such as
those in pursuit of precautionary science or in
opposition to corporate control over the university
research agenda.

You can get involved:
1. Call, email or write the UC Berkeley Chancellor
Birgeneau and the Academic Senate.
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Snail Mail: Office of the Chancellor, 200 California
Hall # 1500, Berkeley, California, 94720-1500
(Academic Senate = PHONE: [phone]; FAX:
510-642-8920; E-MAIL: [e-mail]

2. Visit www.tenurejustice.org or write
[e-mail]




Rating:
Summary: Over thirty essays are contributed by experts
Review: How are genetically altered foods affecting daily lives, and are genetically changed materials becoming a part of our genetic makeup through digestion of these foods? Genetically Modified Foods explores the myriad of issues and argument arising from the use of genetically modified foods, offering chapters which cover their history, science, and health concerns. Over thirty essays are contributed by experts in science, law, religion and public policy, making a guide which is packed with important observations and facts.

Rating:
Summary: Biased grouping of essays
Review: Since this book has "debating" in the title you would think that it would provide a balance of both pro and con viewpoints on the subject of genetically modified foods. I did not find this to be the case. The majority of essays in this book are pro genetically modified foods. Also, several of the pro GMO authors have ties to companies with an economic stake in GMO foods, like Monsanto, that are not disclosed. This significantly damages these authors' credibility. I would not recommend this book if you are looking for a well-rounded exploration of this subject.

Rating:
Summary: Biased grouping of essays
Review: Since this book has "debating" in the title you would think that it would provide a balance of both pro and con viewpoints on the subject of genetically modified foods. I did not find this to be the case. The majority of essays in this book are pro genetically modified foods. Also, several of the pro GMO authors have ties to companies with an economic stake in GMO foods, like Monsanto, that are not disclosed. This significantly damages these authors' credibility. I would not recommend this book if you are looking for a well-rounded exploration of this subject.