Topics: Convergence of human genetic and reproductive technologies with other emerging technologies and practices, including synthetic biology, nanotechnology, neurobiology, "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) biotechnology and more, and their application towards extreme ends, including human “enhancement,” species-altering proposals, exotic weaponry, and transhumanism.
The Session: An information-sharing, framing and policy/strategy discussion of the social and political challenges raised by these emerging and converging technologies and what should be done. Special attention was given to the ways in which they impact human life and society. Key questions included: What is the current level of public awareness? Who are the key actors? What are the major constituency concerns? What sorts of policy proposals are on the table? What institutions of "anticipatory governance" might be established? What are the implications of the recent announcement by Craig Venter of the first "synthetic organism?"
Topics: Convergence of human genetic and reproductive technologies with other emerging technologies and practices, including synthetic biology, nanotechnology, neurobiology, "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) biotechnology and more, and their application towards extreme ends, including human “enhancement,” species-altering proposals, exotic weaponry, and transhumanism.
The Session: An information-sharing, framing and policy/strategy discussion of the social and political challenges raised by these emerging and converging technologies and what should be done. Special attention was given to the ways in which they impact human life and society. Key questions included: What is the current level of public awareness? Who are the key actors? What are the major constituency concerns? What sorts of policy proposals are on the table? What institutions of "anticipatory governance" might be established? What are the implications of the recent announcement by Craig Venter of the first "synthetic organism?"