Federation of American Scientists Case Studies in Dual Use Biological Research Module 4.0: Mousepox Case Study
Topic: Discussion Subtopic: Discussion Questions

1
 
Should the researchers, having recognized the implications of their experimental results for smallpox, have brought this issue to the attention of the media themselves?
 
2
 
Should there be further oversight of genetic engineering of viruses related to existing select agents? If so, by who and to what extent?
  
3
 
Should certain genetic engineering be more tightly controlled by governments or strict oversight given the potential for accidental or intentional release? What kind of controls?
  
4
 
Did the sponsorship, review, and approval of the mousepox experiment and its publication by Australian government authorities clear Drs. Jackson and Ramshaw of responsibility for their experiment and its implications?
 
5
 
Should the researchers have done more to alert the proper authorities of the bioweapons implications of their research (i.e., beyond contacting members of the then small biodefense community)?
  

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