So, why exactly would an international consortium create a virulent (though only moderately deadly) strain of a virus that causes the common cold? What’s the payoff?
I do t think that was the intention of the participants, unless it was solely the inention of the Chinese.
There is no rational payoff.
This is an example of institutional arrogance and stupidity. On an individual basis I am sure we could find some carefully hidden malice and self-destructive impulses in critical staff members. Just because some things can be done, does not mean they should be done.
On an irrational basis one might recall the quote from the Stephen King novel "The Stand".
"Now you know it works. Any questions?"
Don’t libs and one worlders want to reduce the world’s population and send folks back to the dark ages so they can rule unabated?