Question #N530

In the 1970s, the first commercial production of genetically engineered bacteria was developed for use in medicine. However, the public’s distrust of the new technology has led to a growing awareness of the potential risks of genetic engineering. As a result, scientists are now focusing on safer and less controversial applications of this technology, such as developing new biofuels and biodegradable plastics.

Which choice best summarizes the author’s main idea?
A. Genetic engineering has the potential to benefit society, but scientists must be careful not to use it in ways that are harmful or controversial.
B. The development of new biofuels and biodegradable plastics has increased public confidence in the safety of genetic engineering.
C. The public's distrust of genetic engineering is unfounded, because genetic engineering has the potential to lead to many breakthroughs in medicine.
D. Scientists are working to develop new ways to use genetic engineering in medicine that are not controversial.