The question is not “Is it useful?” but “Is it useful enough to justify the risk?” In that case, the answer might well be yes, but there will probably be cases in the future where the knowledge is not worth the risk.
I agree that you have identified the right question. I disagree with you on when the balance shifts. In particular, I think you’ve picked a bad example of “dangerous” research, because I don’t think the virus research you identified is a close question.
The question is not “Is it useful?” but “Is it useful enough to justify the risk?” In that case, the answer might well be yes, but there will probably be cases in the future where the knowledge is not worth the risk.
I agree that you have identified the right question. I disagree with you on when the balance shifts. In particular, I think you’ve picked a bad example of “dangerous” research, because I don’t think the virus research you identified is a close question.
(That said, not my downvotes)
Upon further research, you’re right. The research appears not to be as dangerous as it seemed at first glance.