The Verdict

As with any emerging innovation, fear can manifest and impede its institution. This is especially true for GM crops. A lack of science literacy has resulted in several erroneous implications of GM crops: a lack of understanding of genetics resulting in an unnatural outlook on GM crops and a fear of consuming altered DNA, incorrect interpretations of correlations of diseases and pseudoscientific health effects of GM crops, and overlooked applications that are surmounted by unsubstantiated claims. With an increase in science literacy, the unsubstantiated claims surrounding GM crops could be eradicated. Critical thinking paired with a search for reliable primary research could ail the growing pseudoscientific anti-GMO community. Thankfully, initiatives are already being developed to educate the public on pseudoscientific claims like those concerning GM crops to combat science illiteracy (Sherman, 2015). Hopefully the implementation of this program and future programs will help refute baseless claims to the general public and support innovative technologies like GM crops.