the following:
"Any scientific or technical initiatives of one generation that would eliminate the options of future generations should be avoided. The cry has been raised by many that the impact of science has been too fruitful. It has been raised by some with regard to the nuclear sciences. It might well be reiterated in the near future with regard to the biomedical sciences.
"The biomedical sciences have provided man with the increasing ability to modify and to alter human genes. These developments touch upon the most fundamental issues of human life. They portend the ability to reshape man.
"Accepted attitudes about the inviolable nature of man's genetic endowment now stand challenged by science. The political impact of this challenge might be just as powerful as the scientific impact. Unless the potential provided by the biomedical sciences is properly
understood, the inevitable social response might be fashioned out of fear. When complex problems appear too terrifying or mysterious, some people might seek simple solutions that prove inadequate or improper."
if we are to engage in any eugenics, negative or positive, we must confront three vital questions that pervade this entire subject: What traits are to be considered desirable? Who is to make that determination? When in the course of human development will the choice be made? These questions cannot be underestimated in their importance to the future of man, particularly when we are considering biological alternatives that might not be reversible.
"Therefore, the issues raised by the biomedical scientists (in altering and manipulating the genetics of human beings) must be debated, and the debate must begin now. If we postpone debate in this area, we might face irreversible trends not only in genetics but also in political freedoms.
"All segments of society should be involved in the debate these new technologies demand. The techniques must be discussed and debated among lawyers, doctors, theologians, legislators, scientists, journalists, and all other segments of society. The issues raised require interdisciplinary attention. We cannot begin too soon to consider them."
Science has not hidden its recent developments in genetics from the public - the public does not become aware of scientific developments until the media make them aware. Coverage of developments of cloning in particular, indeed, the usage of the strange new word, "clones," is now becoming commonplace in the media.
Hunt-Card Productions and Film-Makers International , in the tradition of provocative science fiction, have created and are releasing the first hard-hitting motion picture about cloning.
"THE CLONES" may seem like science fiction . . . but it's based on science fact.