Human Genetic Editing (CRISPR/Cas9) Example: Editing embryos to eliminate genetic diseases raises concerns about “designer babies” and consent from unborn generations.
Embryonic Stem Cell Research Example: Use of human embryos in research sparks debate over whether embryos have moral status, as seen in limits imposed by some countries.
Animal Rights and Welfare Example: Transgenic animals like glow-in-the-dark fish are created for research or commercial use, raising questions about animal suffering.
Informed Consent and Genetic Privacy Example: Cells from Henrietta Lacks were used without her knowledge, highlighting issues of consent and ownership of genetic material.
Dual-Use Research Example: Research on viral pathogens can be used for vaccines or bioweapons, creating a dilemma on regulation and scientific freedom.
Cloning Ethics Example: Dolly the sheep’s cloning ignited ethical debates about identity and the implications of cloning animals or humans.
Environmental Justice and Pollution Example: Biotech facilities may pollute local water sources, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities.
Eugenics Concerns Example: Genetic modifications could be misused to promote selective traits, potentially leading to social inequalities.
Biotech Patents vs. Access Example: Patenting genes or living organisms may restrict others’ ability to use or research them, affecting innovation and access.
Moral Status of Embryos Example: Disagreement on using embryos for cloning or stem cells often clashes with religious or philosophical beliefs.
10 Social Issues in Biotechnology
Farmers’ Dependence on Patented GMO Seeds Example: Monsanto’s control of seed patents has pushed farmers into debt due to costly seeds and legal restrictions.
Social Stigmatization Based on Genetics Example: Individuals with a genetic predisposition to diseases might face discrimination in insurance or employment.
Global Inequality in Access Example: Expensive vaccines and therapies remain out of reach in many developing nations, deepening health disparities.
Loss of Traditional Knowledge and Culture Example: Introduction of modern biotech solutions can erode indigenous farming practices and cultural heritage.
Environmental Risks from Cross-Pollination Example: GM crops like Bt cotton might crossbreed with wild plants, threatening biodiversity.
Job Displacement Example: Automation and biotech innovations in agriculture lead to reduced need for laborers, impacting rural employment.
Corporate Monopolies in Agriculture Example: Large biotech firms dominate the market, limiting farmers’ choices and agricultural diversity.
Ethical Marketing and False Claims Example: Some biotech products are marketed with exaggerated claims, misleading consumers and farmers.
Public Trust and Misunderstanding Example: Misconceptions about GMOs cause public resistance, affecting policy and adoption.
Privacy Concerns from Genetic Data Example: Sharing DNA data via direct-to-consumer testing raises questions about data security and potential misuse.
