It’s not unreasonable to be cautious. Nuclear accidents did happen, which is what lead people to fear nuclear power, even if it is safer than the public realises. Not barging full speed ahead into unknown technologies with large downside potential is only sensible.

the danger is when greed takes over e.g. as can be seen with social networks - an useful tool being milked in such a way that makes societies crack at their foundations. custom design of proteins could be used to treat and cure most diseases, but curing doesn't earn as much money and treating.

There seems to be a trend of indulging in oppressive fantasy.

Maybe it balances out any irrational exuberance about the arrival of new technological frontiers. Or maybe some folks are just grumpy.

New science is always scary, and the better it works the scarier it is.

> Gene technology has potential to develop truly targeted weapons. What's worse is that it could spread through anyone but only attacking it's intended target(s).

so, no collateral damage? Targeted assassinations? This is the CIA's wetdream.