In Germany, genetically modified food is mostly perceived as a threat to humans and the environment. The argument that genetic engineering might actually help advance sustainable agriculture and food security is dismissed as industry propaganda. But is this blanket rejection really justified? In his lecture entitled “The Great Misunderstanding: Genetic Engineering and Agricultural Development,” the agricultural economist Prof. Dr. Matin Qaim will give an overview of the consequences of genetically modified plants in different parts of the world and also talk about social aspects in the developing countries. The results show that a more nuanced view is necessary.