Team:HKUST-Rice/Practices Debate

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Community Outreach Debate

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Introduction

We held a debate with high school students on the topic: “Is it ethical to treat micro-organisms as a framework for the betterment of agriculture?” There are some intriguing thoughts emerging with the advancement of synthetic biology, and these may possibly elucidate a means of improving quality of life. Some people believe that we as human beings poorly manage the use of resources and are now reaping the fruits of past actions. Thus, it may seem unreasonable to use and modify other organisms in exchange for the betterment of our life. Therefore, we question whether “saving the world and improving quality of life” is an excuse to treat microorganisms as a biological machine in agricultural practices.

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Participants Twelve members of the Rice Institute of Biosciences and Bioengineering (IBB) Girls STEM Initiative were invited to participate in our bioethics debate. These rising high school seniors—all females—from economically disadvantaged backgrounds take part in several mentored science and math activities throughout the year. This outreach program cultivates interest in STEM fields through exposure to the latest advances in biomedical research. Furthermore, the program promotes college readiness and encourages meaningful student-mentor interactions. More information about this organization can be found HERE.

Objectives To critically examine the ethical and moral landscapes of synthetic biology. To reflect on the benefit and harm conferred by human activities. To assess various attitudes towards the controversies surrounding synbio applications to improve people’s lives. Debate Topic Students debated the question: Is it ethical to treat microorganisms as a machine for the betterment of agriculture? Preparation To prepare for this activity, students were asked to read the following two articles outlining some applications of synthetic biology, especially with respect to agriculture. Beyond GMOs: The Rise of Synthetic Biology Synthetic Biologists and Conservationists Open Talks

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Videos

Opening Statements: Each group took two minutes to present opening statements in support of its assigned stance.

Part 1

Part 2

Counter Arguments: The students elaborated on their initial statements for an additional two minutes per argument. Rebuttal and counterargument periods were one minute each.

Free Arguments and Wrap-up Discussion By the end of the debate, most students were still uncertain about whether the use of microorganisms to promote human agricultural practices was definitively right or wrong. The overarching complexities underlying this ethical issue were summarized in a brief wrap-up discussion.

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Significance

The participants of the debate did not have much background knowledge about the ethics of using synthetic biology; however, they had ethical views in relation to science. Since they are aware students, they are able to relate using synthetic biology research to their own lives. This is shown through their rationale presented. The participants are worried about our ecosystem and natural order, and how it is ethical to alter these things using synthetic biology means. It is important to have an ethical debate for iGEM because we must be also be socially aware and conscious of the research we are performing.

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Participant Feedback

The girls filled out a survey at the end of the activity, and this is what they had to say:

“This was a very interesting topic to introduce to us. Thank you for doing this activity! This is what continues to encourage my pursuit in science and reminds me of all its interesting possibilities.”

“This was a very interesting debate; this topic was new to me and gave me a better understanding of what synthetic biology is.”

“The debate was great and it allowed me to consider both sides of experiments and scientific changes in the environment. It opened my mind on how scientists should consider the bigger picture rather than just the goal in mind.”

“I love this activity. Even though I was scared at first, this activity helped me understand certain ethical issues that arise. Everything is constantly changing, and we have to decide when is the right time to stop or continue changing.”

“I had fun! I learned to fight for a side I didn’t support and see from an ‘outsiders view.’ I would like to [learn] more about syn bio and what specifically it is researching.”

“This activity was very educational and thought-provoking.”