From Biotech to Nanotech – Enhancing Deliberative Processes for Science and Technology Innovation

Cronin KE¹*

1. School of Earth Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

This paper will outline key findings from recent New Zealand research on the public debate around biotechnology and discuss the policy implications for emerging new technologies, notably nanotechnology.

Research on the social response to biotechnology, particularly genetic modification (GM), indicates a deep level of public concern which has manifested in political controversy and raised significant issues for science communication and science policy. New engagement methods, based on dialogue principles, appear to hold some potential for reducing conflict between scientists and the community. However, this may not be effective unless there is greater responsiveness in the policy/regulatory sector at the same time. New technologies, such as nanotechnology, are likely to raise similar issues to GM. Without early processes for public deliberation, innovation goals for science and technology may be compromised. A social learning approach is required, that allows for greater social discretion in technology selection and assessment, to achieve shared goals for sustainable development.

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