There was a "very curious" lack of concern about motor technology compared to nuclear technology, given that the former was responsible for a far greater number of deaths, Prof Wolpert said.
Asking why there was a "deadly silence" surrounding the issue of road deaths, he replied that it was because the car was "so convenient". The issue highlighted an inconsistency in some people's attitudes to scientific knowledge and technology. He was speaking last night in a question and answer session after delivering his lecture entitled "Is science dangerous?"
Prof Wolpert's distinction between science and technology was challenged by Ms Sadhbh O'Neill of Earthwatch, who said there was close relationship between the two. She said there was a danger "nobody is taking responsibility for ethical decisions".
On the issue of using animals in scientific experiments, Prof Wolpert said he believed it was justified but that it should be debated.
The chairman of the UK Committee for the Public Understanding of Science, Prof Wolpert qualified as an engineer in South Africa and has received numerous honours, including a CBE. He has presented many scientific programmes on radio and television and was a member of BBC2's scientific think tank The Brains Trust.
Prof Dervla Donnelly, a past president of the RDS and professor of chemistry at University College Dublin, introduced the speaker. Welcoming the new series of lectures, she said the society had always taken a forward-looking approach to science.
Mr Chris Shouldice, chairman of the RDS Science & Technology Committee, said the lectures were "a pioneering venture" designed to promote better public awareness of science. They would bring the world's leading scientists, science writers and communicators to Dublin.
"We are hoping to take some of the fear out of science so that people can discuss it with excitement but without emotions. We are trying to provide a forum where the public can come and hear and engage in an informed debate on matters of public interest."
He pointed out that the RDS has had a science committee since the society was founded in 1731. It was in the RDS concert hall in the late 19th century that the word "electron" was first proposed, said Mr Shouldice.
He paid tribute to The Irish Times for supporting the initiative and pursuing an active science policy through its staff, headed by its Science Editor, Mr Dick Ahlstrom.
