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Social issues and GM crops

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Social issues and GM crops
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The genetic manipulation of plants and animals and their use in agriculture is one of the most controversial scientific developments of recent times. This free course, Social issues and GM crops, takes a look at the science behind the headlines and the complex interactions between scientific and social factors. By the end of the course it's hoped that you will have a clearer idea not only of what is possible with GM but what may be considered desirable.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

  • understand some of the social issues surrounding the development of GM crops
  • better understand some of the social issues surrounding the development of GM crops, especially those that are ethical in nature
  • better appreciate the disputed nature of the science that underpins GM crop development and how these relate to modern methods of assessing the safety of GM foods
  • explain how the public consultation exercise relating to the possible commercialisation of GM crops was conducted in the UK and the merits and drawbacks of that approach.

First Published: 09/08/2012

Updated: 16/03/2016

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