The issue of genetically modified organisms, or genetically modified crops is a growing concern in world as illustrated by the article. But, as the article points out, those concerns are generated from an assumption that these modifications are the direct cause for contamination, disease, and health problems. Centered around the decision over a ban on GMO’s, the article follows councilman Greggor Ilagan in his quest to find out more about these GMO’s that he is unfamiliar with other than the general proclamations of dissatisfaction.
What Ilagan finds is incredible interesting and rather surprising. When the bill was first presented, it seemed to him to be a pretty easy decision considering the reputation that follows genetic modification. Yet, he was shocked when some locals began to approach him saying that the bill cannot be allowed to pass.
What Ilagan sets out to find is whether there is legitimate and justifiable cause to pass this bill to prevent GMO use without proper research and knowledge of the points made in the bill.
The bill, brought forth by Margaret Willie, who was urging the council to “act before it was too late.” It was her belief that GMO’s cause a rise in childhood allergies, out-of-control superweeds, genetic contamination, overuse of pesticides, and the disappearance of butterflies and bees. The bill comes with a concern that biotechnology companies will send Hawaiian and many other states’ growers in a position of weakness.
What Ilagan comes to find, is that many of the points used to argue against GMO’s are based on myth and GMO’s are not the main cause of any problems around the world. In fact, GMO’s had helped save a major crop in Hawaii, the Rainbow Papaya, without GMO’s, the sale of the Rainbow would become increasingly difficult.
Ilagan decided to vote against the bill, and though it was not enough to cancel the bill, it raises awareness toward future studies that will hopefully uncover more truths about the effect of GMO’s
In a country that is so unhealthy, America has become obsessed with health. Health has become commercial. Companies stated in the article like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and General Mills are promising or have promised to move away from GMO’s, not because increasing research shows negative effects, but rather because the consumer is demanding it.
GMO’s is just the latest debate in which public opinion and politics has trumped scientific study.