Scientific possibilities often raise moral dilemmas. Take “roborats” for example. It seems we know how to put an electrode in a rat’s brain and then, using remote control, employ it in minefield clearance. We have the technology, but should we use it? Whatever our feelings for ratty, young citizens need facts to make informed decisions (Inside Story page 12).
The BBC’s new 10-part spectacular on The Life of Mammals devotes a whole programme to rodents. On page 24, David Attenborough reflects on his animal ventures: “The environment wasn’t an issue in the 1950s... natural history programmes have changed perceptions.”
