Re: Suicide Seeds on the Fast Track

[Lorax <lorax@tao.ca>]

[: hacktivism :]



On Mon, 27 Mar 2000, Lizzi wrote:

> What is the problem with genetically altered
> seeds--the site that is recommended doesn't give
> any reasoning?  Also Monsanto appears to be the
> target of alot of slander...any paticular reason
> for that, or are they just 'bad' because they are
> willing to use modern technology?

I see nothing wrong with the use of technology to further
the cause of humanity, but Monsanto is doing anything but that. 

They are responsible for a few engineered crops that are 
"resistant" to a herbicide they have interest in, commonly known
as "RoundUp" (you can buy some at your local hardware store).  

One of the major issues is the creation of "terminator" crops, seeds
that grow into roundup-resistant plants, but do not produce viable
seed themselves... So if you want to plant another crop, you have to
go back to the Monsanto collective.  

If your neighbour is using the resistant seeds, and an airplane 
sprays the herbacide and some gets on your crops... well you are 
out of luck.  If the "terminator" crops produce pollen that results
in other crops producing infertile seeds... 

This is a case of hacking for Evil.  :)  Hacking the DNA of a plant
for corporate gain and greater oppression of the working farmer. 

---
Lorax



[: hacktivism :]
[: for unsubscribe instructions or list info consult the list FAQ :]
[: http://hacktivism.tao.ca/ :]