In summary, genetic engineering is still a relatively new technology that requires much need for understanding. Although impressive progress has been made since the late 1800s, there is still much that researchers are trying to fathom and attempt to do. Genetic engineering is a very vast and extensive area of study, which can be applied to agriculture, medicine and industry.

This research has proved to be quite beneficial to society in many aspects. Drugs have been manufactured from bacteria, and living systems have been genetically altered to consume toxic substances in our environment. The potential for genetics is endless as researchers all over the world attempt to understand stem cells, cloning and other aspects in this area.

However, as we get closer and closer to understanding the secrets that are locked inside a living cell, more and more questions are arised in the progress. Most people have no qualms when it comes to cloning animals or plants, but if this same process is directed at humans, there is much controversy in the issue. This applies not only to cloning either. Other areas of study like stem cell research is under careful scrutiny by the public because the extraction of stem cells are made from embryos, and the embryos are destroyed in the process.

Concerns involving ethics, religion and health are a major concern when it comes to genetics. It is not without advantages, but it is undeniably a technology we must use with care and responsibility.