By pulling a topic out of a hat, the class had to use their topic in a debate about a certain type of common genetic argument. My slip of paper read as follows:
1.) Genetically modified foods need stricter controls CON
I knew that I would have to research a lot to have a good argument with, out of all opponents, Bob Smith who I knew would put up a good fight.
Some Interesting things I learned from online research:
"Recall that world food output will need to at least double and possibly triple over the next several decades. Even if production could be increased that much using conventional technology, which is doubtful, the required amounts of pesticide and fertilizer and other polluting chemicals would be immense. If properly developed, disseminated, and used, genetically modified crops might well be the best hope the planet has got."
from the Atlantic Monthly by Jonathan Rauch on Blisstree
"Genetically Modified Food: Pros and Cons :." Blisstree - Family, Health, Home and Lifestyles. Web. 26 Feb. 2010. .
"On the horizon are bananas that produce human vaccines against infectious diseases such as hepatitis B; fish that mature more quickly; cows that are resistant to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease); fruit and nut trees that yield years earlier, and plants that produce new plastics with unique properties"
from Oak Ridge National Labratory
"Genetically Modified Foods and Organisms --HGP Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues." Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Web. 26 Feb. 2010. .
But not only did I find the positive effects for gm foods, but also came across some heartfelt people pooring their hearts out to the government about how controlled it needs to be. (Personally my opinion goes both ways but I can't let that affact my debate)
(a letter to Obama from Chris Wege in a gmo food label blog)
"We want a labeling law to have the right to know if GMO's are in our food and we need at least a level playing field to have a chance against these giant biotech/chemical companies that brought us the $120 Billion superfund to clean up their last environmental disaster!
We would like to see Dennis Kucinich in charge of regulatory departments like the Health and Human Services, and FDA. This would send a clear message: No More Politics as Usual, No more money/lobbist influenced regulation!
I wish you the best and full support of Natural Law!"
GMO Food Label | Home. Web. 26 Feb. 2010. .
After researching and citing my sources, I decided to create a power point to outline my speech with. This link below is the powerpoint. Enjoy!
I studied this hoping to memorize it but I knew from prior experience, my boyfriend (who is good at debates), and from watching other classmates before me, that I would be more convincing if I didn't read from the computer or paper.So, boldly, I took my chances and said it from memory. I am proud of myself and got positive feedback.
My grade is: 15/16 or a 94 :)
