A1: The basics of GM technology

GM is defined as intervention into organisms by means which do not occure in nature. What are the key differences and unique problems associated with GMO technologies, what is their scientific foundation at the present state of knowledge? Why do they command precaution? What are the differences compared to other methods of breeding and innovation in agriculture?

Speakers

Presentation

  • Koechlin: Basics of GM-Technology 
  • Koechlin: Modern Concepts in Biology Regarding the Essence of Plants 
  • Buiatti: Functional dynamics of living systems and genetic engineering 

Background Papers

Unraveling the DNA Myth.The spurious foundation of genetic engineering
Barry Commoner, Harper’s Magazine, February 02

TRESPASS
Claire Hope Cummings, WORLDWATCH magazine, January/February 05

Das überholte Paradigma der Gentechnik. Zum zentralen Dogma der Molekularbiologie fünfzig Jahre nach der Entdeckung der DNA-Struktur
Beatrix Tappeser, Ann-Kathrin Hoffmann, Der kritische Agrarbericht 2004