Genetics is the physical, biochemical and behavioral traits transmitted from parents to their offspring. Hence, genetic modification can be identified as the alteration in the composition of an organism. With this definition, there arises a single question. Is genetic modification a marvel... or a menace? I will discuss the different sides of the controversy in turn, on plants and animals, exploring whether genetic modification should take the mantle of the elusive benefactor or the bane of the human race.

Since the dawn of agriculture, humankind has sought to grow the biggest pumpkin, the crunchiest apple. To this end, we have selected seeds from plants that bear these characteristics, then cross-pollinated the strongest, healthiest plants in the hope of producing the most desirable food. With the current state of technology, the genetic makeup of these food crops can be modified, greatly strengthening...