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
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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
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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.
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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.GFood Science & Nutrition,G9(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.GFood Science and Human Wellness,G5(3), 116-123.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2016.04.002
