The GM Food debate within responsible innovation

Abstract

In the present and recent past, the debate around the genetic modification of foodstuffs for both human and animal consumption has become so polarized that it is difficult even to refer to it as a debate any more.  

The aim of this essay is to analyze the debate in terms of its importance for the rapidly expanding field of Responsible Innovation. Issues surrounding the development of this (GM) issue are often cited in responsible innovation literature, as rightly or wrongly the current position is seen as non productive for all sides. This has lead to the GM case often being taken as an example of how an RI approach could improve stakeholder representation within scientific development.