In:
Science, American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Vol. 335, No. 6069 ( 2012-02-10), p. 660-661
Abstract:
We are in the midst of a revolutionary period in the life sciences. Technological capabilities have dramatically expanded, we have a much improved understanding of the complex biology of selected microorganisms, and we have a much improved ability to manipulate microbial genomes. With this has come unprecedented potential for better control of infectious diseases and significant societal benefit. However, there is also a growing risk that the same science will be deliberately misused and that the consequences could be catastrophic. Efforts to describe or define life-sciences research of particular concern have focused on the possibility that knowledge or products derived from such research, or new technologies, could be directly misapplied with a sufficiently broad scope to affect national or global security. Research that might greatly enhance the harm caused by microbial pathogens has been of special concern ( 1 – 3 ). Until now, these efforts have suffered from a lack of specificity and a paucity of concrete examples of “dual use research of concern” ( 3 ). Dual use is defined as research that could be used for good or bad purposes. We are now confronted by a potent, real-world example.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0036-8075
,
1095-9203
DOI:
10.1126/science.1217994
Language:
English
Publisher:
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Publication Date:
2012
detail.hit.zdb_id:
128410-1
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2066996-3
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2060783-0
SSG:
11
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