Dual Use in Pathogen Research

Abstract

Bioterrorism attacks using pathogens are clear and present danger in an age of terrorism. This article describes international attitudes toward dual use issues in researches of pathogens. Since the terror following September 11, 2001, in New York City, a number of international agencies expressed their sincere concerns on this matter. It is imperative that scientists and bio-engineers recognize this issue and urgently establish societal system with self-governance that can deal with this issue properly. It is also necessary for us to get understanding and consensus from the general public. In other words, self-reformation of scientific society is now under public evaluation.