Genetically Quote by Hugh Howey
““We can’t tweak the genes of the food we eat without suspicion,” Erskine added. “We can pick and choose the naturally mutated ones until a blade of grass is a great ear of corn, but we can’t do it with purpose. Vic had dozens of examples like these. He rattled them off in the cafeteria that day.” Erskine ticked his fingers as he counted. “Vaccines versus natural immunities, cloning versus twins, modified foods. Or course he was perfectly right. The bastard always was. It was the manmade part that would have caused the chaos. It would be knowing that people were out to get us, that there was danger in the air we breathed.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Wool, 2011
The quote warns that manipulating nature’s genetics for food and health raises deep mistrust and fear of unintended consequences.
In simple terms: Changing nature’s genes creates suspicion and fear.
Key Takeaway
Question ethical limits of genetic engineering.
Themes
ethics
technology
trust
fear
control
Mood
cautious
reflective
skeptical
Type
cautionary
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- food production
- public health policy
- biotech regulation
- consumer education
Key Concepts
genetic engineering
bioethics
risk perception
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards are needed for genetic modifications?
- How does fear shape biotech policy?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook benefits of controlled genetic advances.
