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. . . [T]he debate around genetically modified organisms began in the late 1970s. It was largely started by Jeremy Rifkin and his think tank, Foundation on Economic Trends (FET). In fact, Rifkin proudly admitted:
“You know where the opposition to GMOs started? In my office. We started the whole opposition worldwide.”
Rifkin began shaping the narrative around genetic engineering when he published his 1977 book, Who Should Play God?, a warning against the dangers of the new practice.
A year later, Rifkin started his think tank. . . .
. . . .
Since 2000, Rifkin’s influence has grown. He has advised three presidents of the European Union—including current president Jean-Claude Juncker—and the leadership of the European Parliament. So, it’s no surprise the EU has taken a highly precautionary attitude towards GMOs.
. . . .
Rifkin has since broadened his influence, and now works closely with the Communist Party of China. . . .
He also has ties to the current initiatives for GMO labeling in the US. . . . The current head of the Organic Consumers Association, Ronnie Cummins, was also a past program director at Rifkin’s think tank. . . .
Read full, original post: Meet the man behind the three-decade crusade against GMOs
