Biotechnology
Biotechnology encompasses the use of biological systems in extracting useful chemicals and products from living organisms for the benefit of different sectors. Farming, food production, and medical fields mainly incorporate biotechnology to combat problems and offer meaningful solutions (Marks, 2017). Genetic engineering procedures lead to the development of harsh weather-resistant crops and effective drugs for curing ailments affecting the human population. With particular emphasis on the medical field, biotechnology brought immense improvements to how health specialists tackle pandemics like the spread of malaria. Considering the benefits and risks arising from the use of biotechnology helps to develop an ethical argument on the responsibility developed countries have on finding cures to global epidemics.
Cancer is one such ailment where its treatment extensively makes use of biotechnological research. Several treatment options emerged in the 21st Century, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which work to reduce the mortality rates attributed to the disease (Neagu, Albulescu, & Tanase, 2015). However, opponents to the use of these medical practices posit that the therapy procedures pose particular risks to the patients like irreversible damage to the brain through radiation exposure and extensive dependence on the prescribed medication. Conversely, benefits also exist, such as the eradication of cancer cells in many patients leading to remission, as well as improving the affected’s general health conditions. Hope lies in the fact that complete obliteration of the disease will occur soon, meaning that embracing the use of biotechnology is paramount.
The developed countries possess the skills and resources to formulate cures for the pestilence wreaking havoc in underdeveloped nations, such as malaria. However, debates ensue on the moral obligation such countries have in assisting the rest of the world. The so-called ‘Western countries’ should not shy away from collaborating with the less able nations in helping them combat the diseases plaguing their citizens. Furthermore, their efforts should go beyond seeking any financial gain through the cures they develop, or maliciously conducting clinical trials in the impoverished countries then forwarding the synthesized treatment back home (Weigmann, 2015). As a way of unifying all communities in the world irrespective of economic or geographical differences, developing effective treatments will transcend ethical limitations to promote equality in the human species.
Identifying the benefits and risks surrounding the use of biotechnology in the medical field helps define the ethical responsibility developed countries have in formulating cures for global ailments. Biotechnology utilization in diseases such as cancer offers more benefit than risk, building on the hope that such illnesses will ultimately end. Western countries should also contribute their efforts in helping underdeveloped nations deal with diseases like malaria, to promote human equality that overlooks skin color or financial status. Biotechnology use is essential in everyday life, to create a better tomorrow for future generations.