Technological Fixes II, Genetic Engineering, Technological Pragmatism and Planetary Boundaries

Abstract

This chapter begins by examining specific, sweeping endorsements of genetically engineered, technological fixes based on a progressive interpretation of the history of agriculture. It then shows how a pessimistic interpretation that counters the optimistic view by emphasizing the harmful, unintended consequences of technological agriculture. These rival interpretations cancel each other out: we need a more balanced, pragmatic philosophy of technology to understand and evaluate innovations in agricultural biotechnology. I then apply the pragmatic criticisms of technological fixes developed in this chapter to evaluate two proposed genetically engineered, technological fixes. One is a genetically engineered pig designed as a fix for phosphorus pollution. For the other example, I return to Golden Rice as a fix for the sociopolitical problem of poverty leading to micronutrient malnutrition. This case-by-case examination avoids the sweeping pro and con positions of technological pessimism and technological optimism that drive the polarized debate over agricultural biotechnology.