The impact of science and technology on the civilization

• Published in: Biotechnology advances Vol. 27; no. 6; pp. 940 - 944
• Main Author: Arber, Werner
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Inc 01.11.2009; Elsevier
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Biotechnology; Civilization; Cultural values; Evolution, Molecular; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Genetic Engineering; GM crops; Innovation; Molecular Darwinism; Policy assessment; Research strategy; Science; Scientific knowledge; Sustainability; Technology; Technology assessment; Innovation; Cultural values; Research strategy; Sustainability; Technology assessment; Molecular Darwinism; Policy assessment; Genetic engineering; Scientific knowledge; GM crops; Policy; Technology; Transgenic plant
• ISSN: 0734-9750; 1873-1899
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2009.05.014

The rapid increase of available scientific knowledge is largely due to the introduction of novel research strategies. The application of these strategies, both in fundamental and in translational scientific research, leads to bursts of technological innovations. In order to fulfill the justified public request for sustainability of technological innovations that contribute to the shaping of the future, increasing attention should be given to science-based technology and policy assessment. These requests are illustrated by benefit/risk evaluations of relevance for the use of genetic engineering as an efficient and effective research strategy. Expected benefits of a responsibly planned introduction of GM crops are outlined as a prospective example for the guiding theme “Biotechnology for sustainability of human society”.