What’s So Controversial about Genetically Modified Food?

Even after decades of use in many parts of the world, genetic modification of foods remains the most bitterly contested innovation in agriculture. Some proponents of the technology characterize the opponents as being scientifically illiterate, but is that really the issue? In this timely book, John T. Lang uses ethical, legal, and cultural frameworks to examine the debates around the use of genetically modified food. I recommend it highly to the many scientists perplexed that the issue is still so controversial if the science is so settled. This is by no means an anti-science book but explains how people, very reasonably, might consider other types of evidence when making decisions. –John Coupland, Pennsylvania State University and President-Elect, Institute of Food Technologists”

John T. Lang is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Occidental College in Los Angeles, California.