Question

If humans become infected with the Ebola virus it can have devastating effects. Strong, but not certain, evidence suggests that trading in animal products is the main reason for the spread of the Ebola virus to humans. Which statement about the precautionary principle is correct?
A. In the absence of certainty about cause and effect, people should not be asked to stop trading in animal products.
B. The burden of proof regarding a cause and effect relationship lies with scientists.
C. Because it is a probable cause, trading in animal products should be banned because of the potentially devastating consequences.
D. The precautionary principle is not relevant in this case.

Answer 1

I would choose B. It would be bad if trading in animal products is banned and it proves not to be the issue. It is also bad to have people keep bringing them in if there's strong evidence for this action spreading the disease. Therefore, it is up to the scientists to provide cold hard proof of whether this action is spreading the disease or not.