Controversial Technologies
Paper details:
Over the last couple weeks we have discussed many concepts that are considered controversial among the general
... [Show More] population, but not so
among the scientific community. These include stem cell research, cloning, and genetic engineering. Each of these technologies has incredible
value for our species, but are largely misunderstood. In this discussion, you will choose ONE of the prompts below in an attempt to educate the
general public about the benefits of these technologies.
Stem cells are cells that have not differentiated yet, i.e, they have not been given instructions. For this prompt, review the lecture material and
TED Talk on stem cellsLinks to an external site. and the Learn Genetics Stem Cells resourcesLinks to an external site.. Explain to your
classmates the different types of stem cells, and their use in modern science. Provide at least two examples of how stem cells can be used in
medicine. How might you convince someone opposed to stem cell research, of its benefits?
"GMO" is a buzz word that will illicit a lot of negative responses from the general population, but the scientific community agrees that
genetically modified foods are safe and healthy, after thousands of studies over the last 100 yearsLinks to an external site.. Yet, people rage
against it, even destroying the technology in protest. For this prompt, review the lecture materials on selective breeding and TED Talk on
genetically engineering our foodsLinks to an external site., as well as Learn Genetics' "Genetically Modified Foods"Links to an external site. and
"Pharming for Pharmaceuticals."Links to an external site. Explain how genetic engineering works. Provide at least two examples of how
genetic modification can be used in medicine and/or farming. How might you convince someone who is opposed to genetic engineering
research, of its benefits?
Viruses can be scary. Post the COVID-19 pandemic, we might struggle to convince people that we can actually use viruses to our benefit. For
this prompt, review the lecture materials on viral transfer and Ed Boyden's researchLinks to an external site., as well as Learn Genetics' "Using
Genetic Tools to Fight Viral Outbreaks."Links to an external site. Explain how scientists are able to use viruses to our advantage. Provide at
least two examples of how genetic engineering of viruses can help humanity. How might you convince someone who is opposed to releasing
genetically altered viruses, of their benefit?
*You MUST use the resources I've provided in each prompt, but are welcome to do additional research. When you use outside source make
sure to cite and reference them in APA, and write in your own words. Remember to be objective. While I want you to focus on the benefits of
these technologies, I also want to address any concerns you have about them yourself, so please feel free to ask questions about the
technologies either publicly in this forum, or with me privately. [Show Less]