WHY SGR?
Science ... Part of the Problem?
Many of the problems facing society today are as a result of the irresponsible
use of science, design and technology...
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arsenals of mass destruction are still deployed, often at a poor standard
of care, and new weapons tend to keep one step ahead of arms control
-
excessive emissions of greenhouse gases are adversely affecting the climate,
threatening the lives and livelihoods of millions of people
-
the nature of war, and of other kinds of armed conflict, is continually
changing, thereby keeping ahead of efforts to reduce its barbarity
-
modern agricultural methods are leading to widespread loss of topsoil and
water shortages
-
serious nuclear accidents occur and nuclear weapons continue to spread
-
stocks of some species of fish are severely depleted due to over-fishing
Other new science is connected with the emergence of new and as yet unclear
threats ...
-
will gene patents give a few patent-holders control over large sectors
of agriculture and medicine?
-
how much risk is being taken with the accidental and controlled releases
of genetically modified organisms into the environment?
-
what will be the cost in security and economic terms of the exploitation
of nuclear power?
-
will attempts to 'engineer the climate' to slow global warming have more
dangerous side-effects?
Indeed, at the current speed of the economic globalisation, is it really
possible to properly evaluate the risks of these new technologies before
they are commercialised?
All of these problems are multidimensional. Economics, politics, science, design
and technology are intertwined and cannot be separated.
Some people have become disillusioned with science, design and technology and
see them solely as part of the problem.
... and Part of the Solution
Unlike the 'technological optimists' SGR recognises that science, design and
technology are indeed part of the problem; but, unlike those who are indifferent
or even hostile to science, SGR also recognises the enormous contributions that
science, design and technology make to our civilisation and wellbeing. The new
problems, as well as those that have always been with us, such as starvation,
drought and illness, require a combination of new scientific, economic and political
solutions.
If social justice, care for the other species of this planet, and a concern
for future generations have their rightful place as fundamental values, then
science, design and technology can be much more part of the solution than part
of the problem. Here are just a few programmes that deserve much more science,
design and technology funding ...
- the clean, sustainable production of energy, and its efficient use
- the development and application of biological and medical knowledge to
the benefit of all
- the study of social and economic affairs with the aim of improving the
lot of all
- the development of clean, efficient transport systems, in a social setting
which provides needed transport for all but inhibits unnecessary travel and
freight-miles
- the use of information technology to increase energy efficiency, reduce
the need for transportation, eliminate unnecessary labour, and promote access
for all to humanity's pool of knowledge
- the design and construction of energy efficient and zero energy building
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last updated: 15th February 2006
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