It is possible that the "recombinant DNA affair"

will someday be regarded as a social aberration,

with the Guidelines preserved under glass. 

Even so, we can say the beginnings were honorable.

Faced with real questions of theoretical risks,

the scientists paused and then decided to proceed under caution.

Now that decision gave rise to dangerous overreaction and exploitation, 

which gravely obstructed the subsequent course.

Uncertainty of risk, however,

is a compelling reason for caution.

It will occur again in some areas of scientific research,

and the initial response must be the same.

After that, the lessons learned here

should help us through the turbulence that is sure to come.