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Lead Papers
Ms. Manjula V. Guru and Dr. James E. Horne, Anna Olofsson
It has been found that the human genome was a logical program with a set of precisely coded instructions put together by evolution for the design, operation and maintenance of a person. The program uses four letters designated A, G, C and T after the chemical units of DNA.
Changing and rewriting the program could give our species power to change the course of its evolution, to unprecedented medical treatments, and to correcting genetic flaws controlling congetinal diseases and increasing significantly our life span.
What are the consequences of such an important discovery on the sustainability of our species, life itself and of Earth?
Guru and Horne discussed the task of discerning all the relevant issues having a bearing on the conservation and management of genetic resources and then
integrating them into consistent policy is extremely complex. With continuing globalization and increased understanding of the world’s
interdependence on all levels, few important issues can meaningfully be addressed without undertaking the complex process of
unweaving and understanding relevant issues and then integrating a policy response.
Better analytical tools are needed to enable policy – makers to evaluate the trade – offs and consequences of particular decisions.
Analysis of recent developments in terms of their objectives, interests and relations to one another is a necessary first step in developing
better analytical tools for policy – makers.
Guru and Horne mentioned that despite its many benefits, genetic engineering has caused concern among some people. Some oppose genetic engineering because they
fear that harmful, uncontrollable bacteria might be produced accidentally. Others worry about possible environmental damage by the
deliberate introduction of organisms whose heredity has been altered. In addition, some people question the morality of manipulating
the genetic material of living creatures. In this paper developments in the national and international intellectual property rights policies
on biotechnology are perused. Special focus is placed on the cause for worry and the different viewpoints held on the interrelationship
of intellectual property rights, genetic engineering, and loss of biodiversity.
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