Issues: Emerging technologies

Emerging technologies

SGR produces a range of resources on the issue of 'Emerging technologies'. This covers a wide range of new and controversial technologies such as hydraulic fracturing (fracking), artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, climate/ geo-engineering, genetically-modified organisms and synthetic biology, and nanotechnologies. An explicit concern is the adequate application of the precautionary principle, and the possible alternatives to emerging technologies, including 'appropriate' technology and non-technological solutions such economic, political or social change.

Synthetic life – too much, too soon?

Michael Reinsborough asks whether synthetic biologists are rushing ahead with development of associated technologies before the science is properly understood.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 39, winter 2011 (published online 4 March 2011)
 

Armed drones: how remote-controlled, high-tech weapons are used against the poor

David Hookes, SGR, explores the ethical and legal implications of the growing use of armed, unmanned planes in the 'war against terrorism'.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 39, winter 2011

 

Science and the Corporate Agenda

The detrimental effects of commercial influence on science and technology

SGR report by Chris Langley and Stuart Parkinson; October 2009

It is no secret that links between the commercial sectors and science and technology are increasing. Many policy-makers, business leaders and members of the science community argue that this is positive for both science and society. But there is growing evidence that the science commercialisation agenda brings with it a wide range of detrimental effects, including bias, conflicts of interest, a narrowing of the research agenda, and misrepresentation of research results. This report takes an in-depth look at the evidence for these effects across five sectors: pharmaceuticals; tobacco; military/defence; oil and gas; and biotechnology. Its findings make disturbing reading for all concerned about the positive role of science and technology in our society.
 

 

GM trials return to the UK

GM potatoes are being trialled at a site in Cambridgeshire, with more planned. Eva Novotny explains why we should be on our guard.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 34, summer 2007
 

Predators, Drones and Robofly: Robotics and the military

Chris Langley describes how military interests have become pervasive in robotic science and engineering and outlines the ethical problems this causes.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 33, winter 2007
 

 

GM co-existence: SGR response

SGR Submission, written by Eva Novotny, to the Consultation on proposals for managing the coexistence of GM, conventional and organic crops, July 2006
 

Managing nanotechnology

Alexis Vlandas, Oxford University, discusses some ways in which nanotechnology might be managed to try to prevent negative environmental, security, health or social impacts.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 32, June 2006
 

Critical Paths

12 inspiring cases of ethical careers in science and technology

SGR ethical careers booklet edited by Stuart Parkinson and Vanessa Spedding; April 2006

12 scientists and engineers tell of their experiences in trying to follow an ethical career. The cases cover a wide range of issues relating to the environment, social justice, the military, and animal welfare.
 

Abolition of the AEBC

Letter by Eva Novotny, SGR, to Margaret Beckett, MP, Secretary of State for the Environment, 25 March 2005
 

Monsanto's GM maize cross NK603 x MON810

UK assessment report to market Monsanto's GM maize cross NK603 x MON810 in Europe
Text of submission to a public consultation by Eva Novotny, SGR, on 19 April 2004