Because we are nowadays able to modify living organisms through genetic manipulation, it has become possible to patent the process of modification. This situation creates a new form of ownership on the products of genetic engineering: who is responsible for the potential consequences of the changed organism? In this exercise, students will look into real-life applications of synthetic biology. Some small exercises will help to provide orientation in the realm of ethical issues connected to genetically modifying organisms. Afterwards, students will write a fictive news article from the future to consider the consequences of applications of the new technology of synthetic biology.