H5N1 Virus, Atomic Weapons, Genetic Modification

Why didn't these luddites freak out over humans playing with genes back when
it first started--about 2000 BC? Selective breeding of plants and animals
dates back that far, and that is genetic engineering too. Genes are
mutable--we wouldn't be having the debates over teaching evolution in public
schools if genetic material was set in concrete. The watershed event in the
history of human impact on microbial DNA has been not genomics but
antibiotics. By changing the natural habitat of bacteria, we have created a
few frankenstein bacteria, but we've also saved millions of lives. And
we're dealing with the frankensteins the way we always do, with knowledge
and research.

I don't consider the risk of malicious genetic engineering to be any greater
than the present risks of explosives, rapid-fire assault weapons or chemical
weapons, all of which are available to determined high school kids with a
death wish. The solution to all of these is not banishing the
technology--that has proven unworkable already anyway. It's better
parenting, better diplomacy, teaching tolerance, and a little stronger dose
of non-violence in all things.

Brad W