5-4 Project Part One: Planning Document Second Draft

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SCI 200 Project Part One: First Draft

Jennifer Moore

Applied Natural Science

SCI-200

Professor James Rogers

July 24, 2022

SCI 200 Project Part One: First Draft

Introduction

As indicated earlier, I want to investigate GMOs (genetically modified organism). GMOs are living organisms whose DNA has been altered through genetic engineering. For many years, human beings have been using genetic engineering methods to modify living organisms. Cattles, corns, and a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as papayas, apples, summer squash, and potatoes have been modified to have certain desirable traits. This is a significant issue to me. As a society, we should be aware of the food we eat. In the past few months, I have been trying to embrace healthy eating. I have also tried to convince my parents to eat a healthier diet. Furthermore, I have begun to read more about the composition and ingredients of the food I eat. Therefore, it would be more interesting to find out if GMOs contain addictive ingredients.

I will use three scientific resources to investigate the issue. The first resource “The Truth about Genetically Modified Food” is written by David Freedman. The second resource “Would you eat genetically modified food if you understood the science behind it?” is written by the University of Rochester. The third resource “Should we still worry about the safety of GMO foods? Why and why not? A review” is written by Tadesse Teferra. Both resources talk about GMOs, their benefits, as well as, their significant health risks. However, the authors analyze the issue from different perspectives. Generally, these resources are relevant and appropriate for investing the issue. They all provide thorough, well-reasoned discussions and arguments about the issue based on strong scientific evidence. I followed a 5-step process when searching for these sources: 1) Identify an issue in the natural science to investigate, 2) develop a question that the research will address, 3) determine what kind of resources are suitable for the issue, 4) choose the resources, and 5) analyze the resources and compile a reference list. I examined different factors when making choices. This includes reliability of the information, subject matter, credibility of information, bias or objectivity, and currency.

Based on my review, I would like to know whether GMO foods contain any addictive ingredients. In other words, are there any addictive ingredients in GMO foods?

Audience

Scientific researchers would be interested in my issue. By definition, researchers are individuals who conduct a systemic investigation about something. They study a specific subject carefully, particularly to understand the subject better and discover new information. For instance, they may study the pros and cons of GMOs. Reports indicate that complex research is conducted all over the globe to assess the advantages and disadvantages of GMOs (Zhangd et al., 2016). Freedman (2013) states that the majority of scientific research on GMO indicates that GM crops are safe to consume and that they can feed many people all over the world. According to the University of Rochester (2019), many organizations and association, including the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and the National Academy of Sciences consider GMOs safe. However, Teferra (2021) states that there are uncertainties linked to the science of GMO products. These uncertainties are expressed by scientists and the general public. I would like to find the answer to this issue, and I believe that most scientific researchers have many questions to this issue.

Message

I will tailor my message to fit the people I am speaking with. A tailored message is like an exceptionally tailored suit (Vaisman, 2021). The target audience is more likely to respond to my message when they see how my attention to their details influenced my message. To tailor my message, I will first conduct audience research. More specifically, I will research their background, demographics, interests, the language they use, the information gaps that exist, and the most suitable channels that will be used by the intended audience. This may include conferences, presentations, or social media. Since I am dealing with a highly educated audience – an audience with a scientific background, I would not have to explain scientific principles and terminology. But I would need to demonstrate my expertise in the field. More specifically, I would need to include statistical data in my findings, use appropriate language and tone, make the content of the message relatable, and ensure the information I am providing answers the questions the intended audience would have.

Principle

The precautionary principle, also known as the principle of precaution, applies to the above issue and question. This principle proposes that if an action, policy, or product is suspected to cause harm to the environment or the public, decision-makers should take protective measures before there is comprehensive scientific evidence of a risk. This principle allows decision-makers to take precautionary actions when scientific evidence about human health or environmental hazard is unclear and the risks are high. Proponents consider this principle a tool to prevent and avoid extreme damage to the environment and the public while opponents consider it a tool to stop progress. With regard to GMOs, the principle of precaution would aim to minimize the potentially detrimental effects of GMOs on humans and the environment.

References

Freedman, D. H. (2013). The Truth about Genetically Modified Food. Scientific American. Retrieved from: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-truth-about-genetically-modified-food/

Olsen, N. V., & Motarjemi, Y. (2014). Food safety assurance systems: food safety and ethics. Encyclopedia of Food Safety, 9: 340-344. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-378612-8.00437-6

Teferra, T. F. (2021). Should we still worry about the safety of GMO foods? Why and why not? A review. Food Science & Nutrition, 9(9), 5324-5331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002%2Ffsn3.2499

University of Rochester. (2019). Would you eat genetically modified food if you understood the science behind it? ScienceDaily. Retrieved from: www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/06/190604131137.htm

Vaisman, S. (2021). Know Your Audience – Tips for Tailored Communications. Entrepreneur. Retrieved from: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/380271

Zhang, C., Wohlhueter, R., & Zhang, H. (2016). Genetically modified foods: A critical review of their promise and problems. Food Science and Human Wellness, 5(3), 116-123. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2016.04.002