70 
Dr. Sonnebom emphasized that care must be taken in the promulga- 
tion of regulations. As noted by other panelists, even though a scientist 
may complain, about the restrictions on certain kinds of research, if 
these restrictions are reasonable, and flexible enough to be modified 
quickly when new data permit, the vast majority of scientists would 
rather work amicably within this framework than be placed in the 
undesirable position of constantly defending their work. Scientists 
are citizens as well as scientists, and the respect of their social peers 
is important as is the respect of their professional peers. 
Dr. Sonnebom concluded, that basic research is an extremely de- 
manding occupation. The environment for such work must, provide 
an opportunity for creative and original thought. Restrictive regu- 
lation whieh attempts to anticipate every conceivable risk would 
reduce this environment to an undesirably tense situation, .create 
anxiety, and interfere with the serenity necessary for such work. If 
our society wishes to continue to flourish in an atmosphere of freedom, 
care must be taken to limit the restrictions imposed on Scientists, 
as well' as those imposed upon all citizens. 
[Appendix B — 119] 
