As debate rages over the costs and benefits of genetically engineered crops, noted agroecologist Miguel Altieri lucidly examines some of the issue's most basic and pressing questions:
* Are transgenic crops similar to conventionally bred crops?
* Are transgenic crops safe to eat?
* Does biotechnology increase yields?
* Does it reduce pesticide use?
* What are the costs to American farmers?
* Will biotechnology benefit poor farmers?
* Can biotechnology coexist with other forms of agriculture?
* What are the known and potential environmental and biological risks?
* What alternatives do we have to genetically modified crops?