User:Zoe.weber/Social, Ethical and Legal Implications of Bioengineering Animal Species

History
Bioengineering was first introduced in 1976, with Genentech Inc. developing technology that allowed genetic information from one species to be placed into another. Ever since bioengineering of animals was introduced in the 1970s, it has been a controversial topic. Some believe that it can help our economy and our environment, while others say it is inhumane and against every right an animal should have.

What is it?
Bioengineering of animal species is the experimental use of animals’ genes. Researchers take different genes from different animal species and try to create a new species.

What is it used for?
The bioengineering of animal species is used legally and illegally. Some people want to create a new species to eliminate certain pests or environmental problems, but others use the animals in an inhumane manner.

Social Implications of Bioengineering
There are many social implications of the bioengineering of animal species because it is an unnatural process. The specie being created will not have the same make-up as any other animal. The species will also not experience evolution like other species. Although genetic modification aims to eliminate certain genetic weaknesses by splicing two or more species together with the hopes of gaining the strengths of each one, the new species will be prone to illness, and other maladies as it has no natural defences. In the early stages of the genetic modification, the animal would be studied extensively to ensure that it will not only be safe to be introduced to other animals as well as people but also to ensure that it will survive conditions it is subject to. This leads to the social issue of activism and animal rights. Although no animal right may be compromised there is always controversy. Often, biotechnology such as genetic modification of animals is kept away from the public and media to avoid public protests, etc..

Ethical Implications of Bioengineering
In terms of ethics, animal gene technology is very controversial. The main argument seems to be that animals are unable to advocate their pain, and fear for themselves and thus the technology used on them is inhumane. Although the technology is meant to increase quality of life and can be done without killing the animals, this technology and information can be abused much like any other form of technology. Measures are taken to monitor all animals and ensure that they remain calm and healthy.

Legal Implications of Bioengineering
Whether there are laws in place to stop the illegal actions against bioengineered animals, it still can occur. Some people will create these animals for their own use. This could include food, or slavery. They can be used for their organs and cells and be killed right after. These animals are not always treated properly if people plan on killing them once they take what the need. They can be physically abused by being kept in dirty, cold, infected locations. The bioengineering of humans is illegal, but if researchers are able to do it to animals, it is possible that they will try it on humans.