Risky Business: Biotechnology and Agriculture

What are true human needs? Are new technologies really serving those needs, or are they merely supporting an outdated system while increasing the profit margins of big corporations? Concerned scientists and animal activists pose these and other questions in this look at the brave new world of genetic engineering. Plants and animals are being genetically altered so that foods enjoy a longer shelf life and crops can tolerate more poison chemicals. A human gene has been implanted in some pigs so that hearts "harvested" from them for human transplants will be less susceptible to rejection and bovine growth hormones are being used to artificially induce more milk production from cows. Are we letting the genetic genie out of the bottle before considering the consequences? This professionally produced video suggests that we are, while still giving some time to opposing views. However, the video's appeal is limited to action groups concerned with this problem. For others, this is an optional purchase. Aud: C. (S. Rees)