133. It is difficult to make a general judgement about genetic modification (GM), whether vegetable or animal, medical or agricultural, since these vary greatly ... The risks involved are not always due to the techniques used, but rather to their improper or excessive application. Genetic mutations, in fact, have often been, and continue to be, caused by nature itself. … In nature, however, this process is slow and cannot be compared to the fast pace induced by contemporary technological advances, ...
Reflection
This is a vast and complex issue. Pope Francis does not exclude genetic modification. If we are co-creators with God, then this could be considered acceptable. However, we are not God and cannot see all of the implications of these changes. We are co-creators when we don’t exploit but rather respect all life – plant, animal, human – and work for the common good of all.
Action
Learn more about this complex issue. Consider for example, GMO food. Click here to explore some of the issues (CBAN). Click here to see the extent of GMO use in the USA (FDA).
