Final answer:
The option that is generally NOT considered an ethical issue regarding recombinant DNA technology is answering basic research questions. Other choices involve applications with direct ethical implications, raising questions about environmental effects, genetic discrimination, the safety of modifications, and personal privacy. Option d.
Step-by-step explanation:
The aspect of recombinant DNA technology that is generally NOT considered an ethical issue is D) answering basic research questions. Answering basic research questions is essential for scientific progress and doesn't inherently raise the same ethical concerns as the other options listed such as the unforeseen impact on the environment, the screening of humans for genes that predispose them to disease, the modification of animals to produce pharmaceuticals, and the modification of crop plants. These other areas concern the consequences and applications of the technology that have direct ethical implications.
Recombinant DNA technology is a powerful tool that allows scientists to explore genetic material and understand life processes. However, its use has raised several ethical concerns, including issues related to modifying organisms, privacy considerations around genetic information, the safety of genetically modified foods, and the potential for genetic discrimination.
When considering the ethical dimensions of this technology, one should examine the risks and benefits associated with its application. Questions such as the potential impact on human health, environmental consequences, and societal implications are central to the ethical debate surrounding recombinant DNA technology.