From Eric Kvaalen
You quote Craig Venter saying: “Basic science at every level can’t contemplate people doing evil things. That would stop fundamental advances that have tremendous positive potential,” (22 November, p 8). I don’t know whether he’s naive, or whether the desire for fame and fortune has blinded him. We must contemplate the possibility of people doing evil things with basic science, and especially with the inventing and engineering that permits the synthesis of smallpox virus.
People suggest that cloning be declared a crime against humanity. But cloning can only harm the clone. Revealing how to synthesise deadly viruses may harm all of mankind.
Paris, France
