Ethical warnings in the biotech century: managing new consumption patterns

Abstract

The paper analyses economic, societal, institutional, environmental and above all ethical considerations and consequences of extensive application of biological technologies in altering natural resources, with the only goal in mind - to satisfy the ever-growing consumption of foodstuffs and other materials. Consumption means different things to different people. Economists focus on the generation of utility, anthropologists and sociologists concentrate on its social meanings. Scientists study the way humans use energy and transform materials. Part of their interest is to see whether any resources become less available for future use. They also monitor whether the use threatens human health, welfare or other things people value. Ethically justifiable conclusions rest on two kinds of claims: (a) factual judgments, based on the best available scientific evidence and theories, and (b) ethical judgments, based on the best available moral principles and theories. Is it ethically justifiable to pursue genetically modified crops and foods? The decision rests ultimately with the consumers who will use their conscience and reason to decide on the ethical questions. However, as these consumers are, by and large, not scientists, they must, to one degree or other, rest their factual understanding of the matter on the opinions of scientific experts. Therefore, ethical responsibility in this decision devolves heavily upon scientists.