Genetic engineering

Genetic engineering began when scientists showed it was possible to insert new genes into bacteria, allowing them to reproduce the new genetic material. This offers the possibility of something as far-reaching as the ability to direct human evolution (with all the treacherous side effects that might involve).
 Stanley H. Cohen, Herbert W. Boyer United States 1973 Genetic engineering

Genetic engineering began when scientists showed it was possible to insert new genes into bacteria, allowing them to reproduce the new genetic material. This offers the possibility of something as far-reaching as the ability to direct human evolution (with all the treacherous side effects that might involve).