The world has seen many changes and technological advances over the last century, but possibly none that hold as many possibilities as genetic engineering. Just as computers and plastics have changed most aspects of modern life since they were invented, biological engineering has the potential to do the same in the future. While the recent technology of genetically enhanced crops, plants, and animals has the potential to greatly benefit humanity, the long-term economic, environmental and social implications of genetic engineering are uncertain and need to be examined further.
             Genetic technology now allows scientist, corporations and governments to manipulate the natural world at the most fundamental level – the genetic one. Strictly speaking, genetic engineering is defined as “the manipulation of an organism’s genetic endowment by introducing or eliminating genes through modern biology techniques” (Hagedorn). Changing specific characteristics of organisms is based on changing their DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid; the acid which carries genetic information in a cell). This technology is being used for modifying genes in plants, animals or microorganisms. It is also being used in food production to improve the nutritious quality, decrease the usage of chemicals such as pesticides, and sometimes add flavor. Molecular biologists have recently learned how to manipulate genes by building customized DNA codes – in a sense they are in the process of creating a series of genetic sub-species (Napier, 12).
             Genetic engineering techniques are being used to dramatically boost food production – conceivably on a worldwide scale. Biotech crops have the potential to considerably reduce pesticide usage, increase yields per acre, raise the nutritional value of food, and require less water to grow. It has been proven that some genetically modified crops are easy to grow in most kinds of soil. They can be grown ...