Sir, - It may well be the case that people sometimes know better than those who would seek to govern them, as Paul O'Brien says (May 29th). However, to base objections to various aspects of science on "intuitive" caution smacks of magic. It is interesting that he picks on areas where science has gone wrong. The list of where science got it right is far greater as witnessed by our standards of living and health, for example.
As in every endeavour of mankind, there are those who abuse the system and therefore discredit it. One surely does not want to dismantle the technological and scientific structures in place and thereby deny the world the benefits they have brought us?
Unfortunately, scientific research does need money and the question is who can supply it. If governments fail, we must turn to other sources, but it is a poor argument to accuse economic interests of worsening the situation. As in other areas, these misdeeds are now beginning to see the light of day and will be more difficult to conceal in the future.
While not excusing the poor safety standards found in certain areas of the scientific community, all scientific endeavours carry certain risks. Based on my knowledge of GM foods to date, I am certainly prepared to take that risk. Others are not obliged to follow suit but for some parts of the world, there is no question of choice. Advances in food technology will bring enormous benefits. - Yours, etc.,
Fergal MacAlister, Blackwater, Co Wexford.