It is difficult to appreciate Dr. Rifkin's concern for interspecies 
genetic experiments. Undoubtedly viruses have been transferring genes 
between mammalian species for millions of years. An amendment to an NIH 
guideline cannot serve to protect the "integrity of every mammalian 
species". There is no evidence that nature has established impenetrable 
species borders and there is direct evidence of the transfer of genetic 
information between species. The literature on the action of retroviruses 
stands as testimony to the free and constant transfer of genetic inform- 
ation between species. It is presumptuous for Mr. Rifkin to speak for 
nature and the "telos" of species. Certainly there are ethical systems 
which support the expansion of knowledge, the dissolution of ignorance, 
and the prevention of "natural" tragedies. "Integrity" does not neces- 
sarily apply to legislative efforts to freeze a changing universe. 
All of humanity can benefit from the knowledge of gene expression and 
gene control. This is the first time that man has a reasonable hope to 
attack the evils of developmental defects which cause severe mental 
retardation and incapacitating physical deformities. It is my hope that 
the NIH Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee will not accept such pre- 
sumptuous amendments as that of Jeremy Rifkin, which would hamper the pro- 
gress of careful and thoughtful research. 
Sincerely yours, 
Roy D. Schmickel, M.D. 
RDS: 1 c 
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