Weird science
Re: "Slaves to irrationality", (PostBag, Dec 22).
In suggesting that genetic engineering is the equivalent of the process of reproduction and thus is natural and therefore safe, Nigel Woodward has a poor understanding of the science of natural selection.
GMOs are produced by inserting one or more genes from one species into a completely different species, a method called horizontal gene transfer. By contrast the mechanism of natural reproduction is the transfer of genes from parent to offspring via either sexual or asexual reproduction, a process called vertical gene inheritance.
Horizontal gene transfer has none of the present time finely tuned responsiveness of the organism to the environment which characterises the evolutionary process of natural selection.
Dr Mae-Wan Ho of the Institute for Science in Society writes: "Instead of linear causal chains leading from DNA to RNA to protein and downstream biological functions, complex feed-forward and feed-back cycles interconnect organism and environment at all levels to mark and change RNA and DNA down the generations. Organisms work by intercommunication at every level, and not by control. In order to survive, the organism needs to engage in natural genetic modification in real time, an exquisitely precise molecular dance of life in which RNA and DNA respond to, and participate fully in "downstream" biological functions.
That is why organisms and ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to the crude, artificial GM RNA and DNA created by human genetic engineers. It is also why genetic modification can probably never be safe."
Studies revealing the dangers of GMOs are numerous. In the late 1990s Monsanto introduced a gene into its patented corn from a soil bacteria called Bacillus Thuringiensis that produces a toxin called Bt. Bt kills insects by destroying their digestive tracts. It has also been shown to damage the intestinal walls of newborns and young children.
Research conducted at Sherbrooke University Hospital in Canada found Bt toxin in the blood of 93% of pregnant women tested, 80% of umbilical cord blood in their babies and 67% of non-pregnant women. So I must ask is fear of GMOs irrational as Mr Woodward would have us believe, or should we exercise that most precious commodity, patience, and wait until we have a summary understanding of exactly what and who we are putting at risk?
MICHAEL SETTER
Dangers of GMOs
If GMO products were so beneficial to the people, why is Monsanto fighting tooth and nail against its labelling? Why the need for laws that make no sense to give US jurisdiction in foreign countries regarding the use of GMOs? Why do farmers become bankrupt and commit suicide in India? Why is research swept under the rug and researchers threatened if the findings are not favourable to GMOs? The answer is simple: GMOs are dangerous products, they are only good for those who produce them, not consumers.
CLARA HOLZER
Tourism confusion
The tourist police and volunteers marched on Sunday through tourist areas to boost confidence in the ability of police to ensure safety. I wonder what any tourist seeing that march would have made of it? If I had seen the march I would have thought it was some kind of demonstration! The banners reading "We Safe Thailand Safe" and "Touris (sic) Safe" - what on earth does that mean?
If the Thais are serious about looking after tourists' safety and well-being (as tourism accounts for about 10% of GDP I would have thought that would be a priority) then how about getting rid of the Phuket taxi mafia, the jet-ski scammers, the "sorry Grand Palace is closed today but I can take you on a free tour to visit my friend's jewellery shop" scammers, the double pricing, the beach chair vendors who won't allow tourists to sit on a public beach and so on?
PETER ATKINSON
Sorely missed
Mondays will not be the same without MR Usnisa's column.
I'd like to wish her the very best for the future and to thank her for putting a smile on my face every week. A kindred spirit who I will sorely miss.
FANTIA
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