Abstract
This article presents historical cases in which Britishscientists, principally scientific advisors, have attempted to defendresearch on biological weapons. Although the historical record is scant,there is a degree of continuity in their justifications, and a number ofthemes can be identified. It was argued, that biological weaponsresearch is morally justified because it produces humane weapons; thatit is no different from medical or other research; and that it is beingperformed for defensive purposes. It is argued that this defence isdirected primarily towards other scientists working on germ warfare, andwas formed part of the `moral economy' of that secretcommunity.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Balmer, B. Killing `Without the Distressing Preliminaries': Scientists' Defence of the British Biological Warfare Programme. Minerva 40, 57–75 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1015009613250
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1015009613250