You Will Know Them by Their Fruits: The Ruling Class and Emerging Technologies
Abstract
The initial purpose of this investigative endeavor was to determine and define the facts pertaining to Americas historic and current role in virus Gain-of-Function (GoF) research. However, virus GoF research is just one small facet of a much larger global genetic bioweapons industry. A secretive and ambiguous globalized industry that has interwoven stakeholders working within governmental agencies, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, multinational corporations, and the United States military. Hence, a systems thinking approach is used throughout this body of research to identify the interacting, interrelated, and interdependent components of the overarching biotechnology industry. This study uses Army Design Methodology to frame and broaden the collective understanding of the informational and economic power wielded by the true owners of the global genetic biotechnology industry. Like most modern and emerging weaponizable technologies, the dual-use (or dual purpose) aspects of virus GoF research generates a plethora of moral conundrums. Many of these ethical dilemmas are rooted in conflicts of interests, intentional misinformation campaigns, censorship, cognitive biases, and the secretive nature of the genetic bioweapons industry. This study proposes a moral philosophy called The Four Gs of Moral Authority that closes the gap between the four ethical theories of deontology, utilitarianism, rights, and virtue. An openminded, balanced, unfiltered, and critical analysis of the evidential documents (i.e. patents) and published materials related to the global genetic bioweapons industry could influence moral point of views on several topics that directly and indirectly connect to Americas strategic technological future. Regardless of an individuals moral lens, the facts outlined in this investigative report capture the reality that Americas enduring role in the global bioweapons industry and other technologies will continue to have impacts on all.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1204811
Entities
People
- Stephan L. Walters
Organizations
- Naval War College