What actions has Monsanto taken? What are the trade-offs of these actions? Why do you think Monsanto took such actions?

According to the article, the problem Monsanto is facing is the increasing number of weeds that have developed resistance to its leading herbicide, Roundup. The success of Roundup had been based on the development of seeds resistant to Roundup. These seeds are what are called "terminator seeds". In other words, farmers cannot use seeds from this year's crop to plant another crop next year, but must by new stocks of both Roundup and genetically modified...

According to the article, the problem Monsanto is facing is the increasing number of weeds that have developed resistance to its leading herbicide, Roundup. The success of Roundup had been based on the development of seeds resistant to Roundup. These seeds are what are called "terminator seeds". In other words, farmers cannot use seeds from this year's crop to plant another crop next year, but must by new stocks of both Roundup and genetically modified seeds every year. Thus business model has been quite profitable for Monsanto and creates high yields for farmers. There is a problem with it, though: a trade-off that can harm farmers.

As the theory of evolution and natural selection predicts, weeds adapt to become resistant to Roundup. Monsanto's solution is to simply create newer chemicals paired with newer genetically modified seeds. While this solution maintains Monsanto's profitability, it is not necessary good for anyone else. 

Farmers can use organic farming methods such as crop rotation, mulching, and mechanical tilling to deal with weeds. Although the yields are slightly lower, these methods are sustainable and keep farmers independent of reliance on large corporations. They also preserve more biological diversity. 

These are the key factors to consider when evaluating the trade-offs between Monsanto's profits and what is best for farmers and consumers over the long term.