title: [Limits of biotechnology].
abstract: Biological manipulation of reproduction and growth in farm animals may easily lead to gross underestimation of biological characteristics of these vertebrates. When possible damage to these animals is assessed four peculiarities of vertebrates are of considerable interest. Vertebrates are characterised by being (1) cognitive individuals which show typical symptoms of stress when they become uncertain and insecure, (2) adapted to a species-specific niche, the essential parts of which should be recognised and used in actual husbandry systems of farm animals, (3) dependent on intensive contacts with their fellows or, in the case of farm animals, with men and (4) adults which are the final stage of a species-specific and undisturbed development. Biotechnology should not interfere with these aspects. Although biotechnology is an ethically neutral activity, it should not be permitted for every purpose and at any cost.
authors.affiliation: Vakgroep Veehouderij, Landbouwuniversiteit Wageningen.
authors.forename: P R
authors.initials: PR
authors.lastname: Wiepkema
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000818:Animals; D000829:Animals, Domestic / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology; D001709:Biotechnology; D001947:Breeding; D003071:Cognition; D006128:Growth; D013045:Species Specificity
vernacular_title: Grenzen in de biotechnologie.