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Case Study: Asilomar Conference on Laboratory Precautions When Conducting Recombinant DNA Research
International Dimensions of Ethics Education Case Study Series
  • M.J. Peterson, University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Publication Date
1-1-2010
Abstract

This case is an in-depth summary on an extensively controversial conference held at the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove California, in 1973, where approximately 100 leading scientists in the field convened to formulate safety measures to direct the development of recombinant DNA technology in the United States. It resulted in subsequent discussions, including the conception of a proposed regulated guidelines and risk categories for rDNA experiments. These procedures were adopted and widely used by the US Government today. Appendices include: A.) Chronology; B.) Views on the Asilomar Process; C.) Members of Groups Central to the Scientists’ Debates about rDNA Research 1973-76; D.) Biographical Notes on Scientists involved in the Asilomar Process; E.) Ethical Evaluation of Recombinant DNA Research; F.) Contemporaneous Perspectives on Recombinant DNA Research; G.) Teaching Notes; and H.) Useful Websites.

Citation Information
M.J. Peterson. "Case Study: Asilomar Conference on Laboratory Precautions When Conducting Recombinant DNA Research" International Dimensions of Ethics Education Case Study Series (2010)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/mj_peterson/5/