Question

Here is the topic: Scientists have isolated genes that cause particular diseases and modified genes that alter organisms for particular reasons (for example, to help beneficial plants and animals to survive under harsh conditions).

And here is what I need help with: Make an argument as to why businesses that develop modified organisms should be able to preserve their property rights by patenting such organisms. Then, make a counterargument as to why such organisms should not be patentable.

Thank you Experts!

Answer 1

Argument: Nowadays it's not new that scientists are isolating particular genes from animals or plants that cause certain disease in them. For example, in a recent update i encountered that researchers are isolating cancer causing genes/ cells from humans and then are using them only to treat that same or other type of cancers. It gives them an array of opportunities to discover the potential reasons of these diseases. It also provides them with best possible choices to find a cure with less cost and decreased painful treatments. Modified plants is a whole other topic of discussion. Plants, crops etc., are being targeted by several pathogenic pests, bacteria, fungi etc. Improving the health of economically important crops/ plants will enhance the health of a nation and increase the economy of a country. There are a number of bussiness companies which have taken over the responsibilities to look after these serious issues to modify the condition peole are living in now. Now, if these genetically modified organisms are not preserved and patented then it can reach to any unfaithful source which might be responsible for initiating a war where these animals can be used as a biological weapon. This can bring threat to the society. So with the help of proper legislative system, the motifs of these companies should be scrutinized properly and then in accordance with a country's government body, a patent should be created to have a legal right over these properties.

Counter-argument: There are two reasons which i can think of not making these organisms patentable are:

1) The bussiness holders would not provide clarity to the general people about their research policies which is un-ethical.

2) Bringing a completely new species of animal or plant could bring an imbalance to the ecosystem. Secondly it's impossible to know for a scientist also, what could that new species turn into after creation as the physical, biochemical and genetic properties would be absolutely unknown. It could have all possible abilities to cause harm to the society which is otherwise unacceptable.