GMO debate has a spiritual aspect
Bangkok Post, 9 Sep 2004
http://www.biothai.org/cgi-bin/content/news/show.pl?0318

It is very sad to see that the GM food debate in Thailand is limited to "science" and "business".

The debate is now dominated by the question of whether Thailand will make money or lose money if we grow GM crops. But what about the spiritual and religious beliefs of the Thai people? What about the ethical debate about the manipulation of nature to create GMOs?

Should Buddhists accept this manipulation of nature? Can Buddhists leave it to scientists to debate whether genes from one species of living organism are cut and pasted into another? Some religious leaders in other countries have even warned that GMOs threaten "spiritual pollution" because they are so unnatural.

Many Jews and Muslims are deeply concerned that scientists are inserting pig genes into GM crops. Also, Native American Indian Nations and indigenous peoples in Mexico have condemned the genetic manipulation of corn because it has important spiritual value and is worshipped.

Since GMOs are created by scientists and not by nature, we need to rely on our beliefs, not just scientific "evidence". Yet the supporters of GMOs in Thailand seem to be talking only about business. GM crops are being advertised like a new money-making scheme for farmers to get rich. If that happens, will we lose our spiritual and cultural values in the process?

A BUDDHIST
Chon Buri

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