ACADEMIC SEMINAR “OVERVIEW OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED PRODUCTS (GMO) IN THE CONTEXT OF ISLAMIC LAW” (Assoc. Prof. Dr. ALI YÜKSEK)
This week's (04.06.2022) guest of the seminars within the scope of KTMU Faculty of Theology Seminars series, was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali YUKSEK the Lecturer of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University Faculty of Theology Department of Islamic Sciences.
The seminar started with the opening speech of Dean of the Faculty of Theology Prof. Dr. Kemal POLAT. The speaker Ali YUKSEK presented a seminar titled "Overview of Genetically Modified Products (GMOs) in the Context of Islamic Law." Yuksek explained about Genetically Modified Products, gene transfers, and biotechnological methods of gene transfers. Then he talked about the benefits and harms of obtaining products with gene transfer methods. Gene transfers contribute to plant and animal production, have socio-economic and commercial benefits, increase the nutritional quality and also have health benefits. They also increase the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, provide benefits for the production of vaccines, drugs and raw materials, provide useful contributions in the treatment of human diseases and organ transplantation. Yuksek mentioned, that GMO products have some potential harms on human health. For example, he talked about the risks of allergic reactions, resistance to antibiotics, heart and immune system problems, cancer risk, reduced biological and genetic diversity, environmental damage and concerns, infertility, structural body disorders, and fetal disability. He also concluded his speech by summarizing the view of Islam regarding these issues as follows: "Gene transfers from haram sourcesIt are not permitted in Islam. But gene transfers from halal sources are permitted." He stated, that if it will be beneficial, will cure diseases, will provide the benefit to humanity, then it will be permissible in Islam.
At the end of the seminar, faculty dean Prof. Dr. Kemal POLAT thanked the guest speaker for bringing such an important and current issue to the agenda.
