Zero to 50: A Lifetime in the Driver's Seat Book

By visiting nine regions around the world where a foundation has granted money towards research into increasing food security, manning presents a picture of the cutting-edge technology and ideas in plant science. it would be easy to try to cut this down to an argument for or against genetically modifying crops, but to simplify the issue would go against the whole point of the book, and narrow the broad focus to only the most controversial method of the many the scientists are using. overall the picture formed leans more towards developing knowledge of the entire environment a plant is grown in before tinkering with anything, not modifying solely for economic gain without considering the potential environmental hazards (like round-up ready crops), and studying the existing wealth of knowledge in plants that have adapted to fit their specific terrain and pests, as well as working closely with local farmers. this is an easy book to read, that places the pros and cons of development in the real world, and is definitely educational no matter what side of the science debate you're on.

"the broader themes, the hallmarks of emerging agriculture, involve increasing complexity and diversity - not relying on seed alone but incorporating the power of genetics into a system with broad integrity. solutions will vary with location. one size will not fit all. the array of crops will become more diverse, especially when drawn from the genetically stored wisdom of native plants and forgotten crops. cultural practices will become increasingly important. local information will drive the process. farming will become more attentive to its broader environmental context, not only by degrading it less, but by tapping natural forces for assistance."