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Genetic engineering involves the deliberate modification of the characteristics of an organism by manipulating its genetic material. This allows modern scientists to shape characteristics of living things. This technology offers many positives, including the possibility of enabling people to live longer, or creating productive strains of grain or fruit that can feed greater numbers of people. However, some people are concerned about the Frankenstein-like possibility of abuse. This book describes genetic engineering as it is practiced today, and provides information about how genetic engineering can help the fight against sickness and famine. The Critical World Issues series explores some of the most controversial and newsworthy subjects in the modern world.