Week 6 Blog Post

Biotechnology and Art

With the advent of genetic engineering and its application for modern uses in order to advance the standard of living among many populations around the globe. Much controversy has been brought about, especially in the last few decades. From debates regarding the issue of identity and its lack of existence in the near future, many artists have capitalized on the expression of ideas surrounding this complicated topic. 

Originally thought to be seemingly inconceivable, modern day genetic and bio-engineers have began to created and develop methods of producing superior strains of genes to sustain harsher climates for plant life that make up much of our forests. Thus, the application and development of such a niche field is in itself an art and requires a mode of deep creative thought.

In addition to the advent of potentially modifying forests with modern biotechnological abilities, The GMO industry has thrived recently with the release of foods that are both easier to harvest and are more commercially available. Unfortunately, many worry about the possible disadvantages regarding the impacts to health as a direct result of consumption. Artist and Music producer Neil Young, in his 36 studio album, comments on the dangers and ignorance that society faces among companies like Monsanto and their influence on GMOs used each day. His album cover, as shown above, clearly expresses the issue of such problems and how much has changed more recently.

 Pharmacogenetics is another area of study that has grown rapidly in recent yeas. As genes play a bigger role for the medical profession, the demand for processing and treating people requires the processing of genetic information. Thus, many scientists have, like many artists who use creative intuition, have and continue to develop pill capsules that relay genetic information of the patients who ingest the creatively engineered pills.

Works Cited

DaSilva, Edgar. "Art, Biotechnology and the Culture of Peace." Electronic Journal of Biotechnology. Web.

Dawes, Terry. "Neil Young, GMOs and Monsanto: Why the Artist Picked the Wrong Fight This Time - Cantech Letter." Cantech Letter. 2015. Web. 09 May 2016.

Fung, Eric T. "Pharmacogenetics for the Rest of Us | GEN Magazine Articles | GEN." GEN. Web. 09 May 2016.

Perry, Tekla S. "Two Andrews and an Algorithm Aim to Accelerate Drug Discovery." IEEE Spectrum: Technology, Engineering, and Science News. 2016. Web. 09 May 2016.

Strauss, Steven H., and H. David. Bradshaw. The Bioengineered Forest: Challenges for Science and Society. Washington, DC: Resources for the Future, 2004. Print.