25 
Dr. Joklik said a concept of "species" was being invoked in support of 
Mr. Rifkin's proposals . Dr. Joklik said he is a member of the International 
Ccrrmittee for the Taxonomy of Viruses which has been trying to develop a 
definition of species with regard to viruses. Dr. Joklik said it has been 
utterly impossible for this carmittee to arrive at a definition of a species. 
Species are constantly evolving, and the transfer of genes from one "species" 
to another has occurred throughout evolution. 
Dr. Joklik supported Dr. Gottesrrein's recommendation that RAC forcefully 
state research on gene transfer be fostered and not hindered. 
Dr. Rapp supported Dr. Joklik 's ccmnents. He pointed cut that medical 
research has tremendously benefited a variety of animal species. The 
development of a rabies vaccine is one example. 
Dr. Rapp said Dr. Fox does not like the fact that humans are human-centered, 
but species tend to be self-centered. Dr. Rapp stated that stewarding and 
handling animals in a humane manner is important, but to think about pre- 
venting certain lines of research in any species is a very dangerous idea. 
If this concept were to be seriously supported, society should consider 
the "telos" of bacteria and viruses. 
Dr. Rapp said he supported Dr. Gottesman's proposal that RAC issue a state- 
ment in support of this type of research. He agreed ethical issues might 
exist, but the consequences of forfeiting all benefits of gene transfer 
research for what at the moment appear to be extremely minor risks are so 
great that RAC should not support Mr. Rifkin's proposals. 
Dr. Saginor said that: 
"...although some of Mr. Rifkin's original purposes may have been 
sincerely based, it appears that various catch phrases are uttered and 
written to engender public fear and potential press coverage with 
almost McCarthy-type tactics. I want to address a statement such as 
'a quick vote '...by our committee. I resent the overt implications, 
and I resent this playing to potential inflammatory press quotes, and 
I particularly resent you implying that our committee and subcommittees 
do not care... and do not carefully consider various ramifications of 
cur decisions before a vote is taken." 
Dr. Saginor said it is important to address the issues and not strike fear 
into the American public. He said he strongly supports Dr. Gottesman's 
suggestion. 
Dr. Gottesman moved that: 
"The RAC reject the amendments preposed by Mr. Rifkin and published in 
the Federal Register of September 20, 1984, Section II. Both its 
importance in current scientific research and the long-term possibilities 
for treatment of human disease and the development of more efficient 
[157] 
