Genetic engineering

Looks at issues that will need to be addressed for us to reap the potentially tremendous health and economic benefits that genomics promises, while managing the associated risks. Deals with a range of topics, including genetic medicine and privacy, issues of intellectual property, and implications for the developing world.

Looks at human developmental gene modification, sometimes termed germ-line gene therapy. Identifies specific dangers for women and for their children where genetic modification of human embryos or fetuses is pursued. Also presents an important gender analysis, pointing out that this kind of genetic experimentation is reliant on the powerful desire and expectation that women will do anything for their children.

Examines agricultural biotechnology and identifies the way that the current prevalence of genetic engineering crops and foods has been hidden from Canadians.

Provides discussion on four issues, including: the use of genetic research in the pharmaceutical industry; the corporate concentration in the life industries; the terminator and traitor technologies; and, the threat of genetic biowarfare. Outlines gender-equality concerns and issues for further research and action.

Examines the Canadian Biotechnology Strategy and the genetic technologies it promotes to be both a contributor to, and signifer of, the changing nature of the state.

Discusses the implications of the introduction of Bill C-56, respecting new reproductive technologies. Raises concerns over what is being proposed in the impending bill and provides clear and concrete alternatives.

Discusses the impacts of cloning on women's health.

Provides a brief description of biotechnology, genetic engineering and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Discusses the recent news story involving an Italian infertility specialist who plans to clone human beings within the near future. Critiques human reproductive cloning and germ line alteration from the perspective of women and women's health. Highlights ten misconceptions in regards to cloning and women's health.

Examines assumptions about biotechnology and the new genetics for Canadians as a whole and for women in particular. Provides a brief overview of "biotechnology" and the "new genetics" and their implications for women's health. Examines two main areas of concern - agricultural biotechnology and biotechnology in health care and medicine.