Ecology and Interconnectedness (Wisdom In Nature)
This is an excerpt of an essay at Wisdom in Nature which presents a consideration of genetically-modified crops from a Muslim perspective - read the whole article here: https://www.wisdominnature.org/resources/gm/ecology-interconnectedness. This excerpt is re-posted here with permission from Wisdom in Nature. (Image: Wisdom in Nature website.)
Let us start by taking a few moments to appreciate the diverse life forms and natural elements that make up a typical farming environment - the insects, birds, small animals, and plants; the soil, its nutrients, earthworms, micro-organisms, and other soil inhabitants; the wind, the sunlight and the rain; larger animals; the varying temperatures, pressures and humidity.
Nature is truly incredible, and no human being can compute the total interactions that occur within a natural system. No human being has control over the forces that both affect and are a part of nature. Yet, in acknowledging our limited ability and understanding, our hearts may open up, awakening humility, and moving us to wondering the possibility of something much more intelligent and capable than we are, and upon which we depend.
"On the earth there are Signs
for those of inner certainty,
as also within your
own selves.."
(Qur' an 51: 20-21)
The totality of interactions in natural systems is immense and beyond intellectual comprehension. When we apply science, we can measure a limited number of outcomes resulting from the genetic modification of a crop. For example, we can look at some changes in the degree of biodiversity; is there a reduction in the number of ladybirds or other insects? What happens to the number of birds? We can also look for any differences in yield over a given area.
The application of technologies should never be used in a selfish way. We must respect the reality that we share our planet with so many other life forms. We must respect the interconnectedness within life, and the dynamic and delicate balance that exists in creation.
"Assuredly the creation
Of the heavens And the earth
Is a greater (matter)
Than the creation of men:
Yet most men understand not."
Qur' an (40:57)
