AgBioWorld Members Discuss Pope’s Message, Norman Borlaug and Holiday Gift Ideas
Pope’s Message Positive Towards Biotechnology
Abstract: A member posted a link to an excerpt of the Pope’s "Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the Celebration of the World Day of Peace." The member noted that this was a positive piece and encouraged others to distribute it widely. He pulled on a specific quote from the piece that he felt best represented the positive aspect of the message.
"We need to care for the environment: it has been entrusted to men and
women to be protected and cultivated with responsible freedom, with the
good of all as a constant guiding criterion. Human beings, obviously,
are of supreme worth vis-à-vis creation as a whole. Respecting the
environment does not mean considering material or animal nature more
important than man. Rather, it means not selfishly considering nature to
be at the complete disposal of our own interests, for future generations
also have the right to reap its benefits and to exhibit towards nature
the same responsible freedom that we claim for ourselves."
Source: Vatican Web site
Norman Borlaug Nominated as Possible Washington Post “Noblest People of the Year”
Abstract: A member posted a link and short excerpt from a Technology Review article on the accomplishments of Norman Borlaug, founder of modern biotechnology. The article discusses his first attempts at breading a better wheat crop. The article also discusses the criticism he received from around the world. In response to this article another member posted a link to a Washington Post contest, Noblest People of the Year, in which Borlaug is part of. Readers of the Washington Post have been asked to pick three from the list. The member encouraged fellow members to vote for Borlaug.
Sources: Technology Review
Washington Post
Books as a Holiday Gift
Abstract: Members discussed the idea of giving books as a holiday gift for the person who “has everything.” One member suggested the book “On Bullshit” by Harry G. Frankfurt. He notes that while giving books as a gift can be “iffy” this book is only 67 pages long and since it is hard-bound, “it will look good on any shelf.” Another member suggested the book "Bad Thoughts", by Jamie Whyte.
Resources:
Bad Thoughts on Amazon
On Bullshit on Amazon
AgBioWorld is comprised of ag-biotech experts who take a keen interest in the latest news and events important to ag-biotech. This blog aims to be a reflection of those events and news stories that have captured our attention. Please share your comments and feelings on the current climate for biotech with us as well.
Best regards,
C.S. Prakash
