WWS 320 Human Genetics Reproduction and Public Policy

Princeton University

Professor Lee M. Silver

WWS / MOL 586a : Biotechnology Policy

Week 2: Pre-Modern Biotechnology & Philosophy of Food (2006)

Controlling life and changing the biosphere

1. domestication of plants

2. origin of corn

3. domestication of animals

5. invasive species

5a. invasive species

Twentieth century biotech

6. Crop enhancement techniques

7. The green revolution

Confrontation between philosophical worldviews

8. Debate over the meaning of GM

9. The meaning of transgenic

10. Process versus product

11. Idealism versus essentialism

12. Organic food

The Meaning of Risk

13. Pesticides in food

14. Precaution or risk-risk analysis

15. The dangers of organic food (meant to be provocative)