Pesticide applications are still a common method of controlling insects that attack agricultural animals and crops. Many areas use pesticides to eliminate organisms known to spread deadly diseases to people. Unfortunately, pesticides are not only harmful to the pests they are designed to kill. They also harm other animals, including humans. The decision to use pesticides involves comparing the benefits and risks of using the pesticide. All pesticides used throughout the world today pose risks. However, their current use in some areas indicates that their perceived benefits outweigh the risks. This activity will ask you to make a decision about the use of an insecticide called DDT. In two case studies, one in the United States and one in Africa, you will investigate whether DDT is an appropriate insecticide.
In the United States a variety of insecticides are available to control insect pests. We will investigate whether the insecticide DDT is appropriate for use in controlling insects that plague cattle and other agricultural animals. Three experts are available to provide information about the use of DDT for pest control. Click on the button under each of the experts to learn about their views of DDT use in this situation. Once you have reviewed the three positions, click on Conclusions.
World War II introduced DDT worldwide for controlling insect pests affecting agriculture and human health. In developing nations, most of the insects that are agricultural pests also spread debilitating diseases to humans. As in other areas, the decision to use pesticides in developing nations is based on a costs and benefits analysis. Three African experts are available to provide you with information about the use of DDT for pest control in their country. Click on the button under each of the experts to learn about their views of DDT use in this situation. Once you have reviewed the three positions, click on Conclusions.
Based on this information, form an opinion about whether the use of DDT is ethical. Write a response paper. Make sure that you rationally analyze and explain your position.