Abstract

LAZOS CHAVERO, Elena. The Invention of Transgenics: New Relations between Nature and Culture?. Nueva antropol [online]. 2008, vol.21, n.68, pp.9-35. ISSN 0185-0636.

Within the current discussion about nature and culture, this article analyzes the meaning of the continuous existence of maize landraces -selected and diversified by peasant families-and of the introduction of transgenic maize for peasant and indigenous communities in Oaxaca as well as for agro-business in Sinaloa. In the same way as the deforestation of woods and rain forests became an urgent topic in 1992, an alarm must be rung about the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture, which implies issues of social justice, self-determination, political participation and sovereignty. In this context, native knowledge and agro-biodiversity, in particular maize landraces, become relevant topics for the international agenda. It's not just a matter of safeguarding some particular plants and "traditions" in a false dichotomy between tradition and modernization. Political and economic decisions come into play that affect the lives of millions of people whose livelihood depends on the cultivation of local varieties. Research into these areas sheds light on the importance of considering the needs and values of local populations in the discussion about the future of GMOs, within the framework of political decision-making at a global scale.

Keywords : transgenics; maize; agro-biodiversity; Oaxaca; Sinaloa.

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