Question

buford is arguing that genetically modified (gm) food crops have many benefits, and that they are safe. which of the following statements provide the strongest evidence in support of buford’s argument?
a. pest - resistant gm plants require little or no use of insecticides.
b. gm plants incorporate genes that they never would have obtained naturally.
c. gm foods have been widely available for two decades, and no safety issues have been confirmed.

Explanation:

To determine the strongest evidence for the benefits of GM crops, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Pest - resistant GM plants needing little or no insecticides directly shows a benefit (reduced pesticide use, which can have environmental and economic advantages).
• Option B: Stating that GM plants have genes they never would have obtained naturally does not directly relate to a benefit; it's just a description of the genetic modification process.
• Option C: The fact that GM foods have been widely available for two decades and no safety issues have been proven is more about safety rather than a proactive benefit of the GM crops themselves (like increased yield, reduced pesticide use, etc.).

So, Option A provides the strongest evidence of a benefit.

Answer:

A. Pest - resistant GM plants require little or no use of insecticides