Commissioned by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, the book appraises the 15 or more years work involved in the controversial Green Revolution - and just how far this has improved the position of people in less developed countries. The book studies the research and use of modern grain varieties - from their physical features to the implications for consumption and nutrition within the context of international trade economics. It concludes with a call that more rational concepts be introduced so that research has the real and direct aim of benefitting indigenous cultures.