The book provides a brief and easily understandable introduction to the fundamentals of genetics, followed by an overview of the currently most important practical applications of genetic engineering. This is a technology that we encounter in various aspects of life, whether in agriculture and nutrition or in different medical applications. The biological foundations of genetic applications are explained simply, and the ecological, medical, social, and ethical consequences are critically examined. Do we already have genetically modified foods on our plates? Do we still have control over whether we eat genetically modified foods or not? Are we already being treated with genetically engineered medications? These and other questions are answered clearly and comprehensively in this book.