Biotechnology, Security and the Search for Limits

Since 9/11 and the U.S. anthrax attacks, public, and policy concerns about the security threats posed by biological weapons has increased significantly. As a result, there are now active international deliberations about what restrictions should be placed on the openness of scientific research. Biotechnology, Security and the Search for Limits examines these security implications for life science research as well as the methodological issues associated with conducting social research. In doing so the book considers the place of biological and social research in creating and responding to societal problems through drawing on diverse academic traditions such as discourse analysis, social problems studies, philosophy, action research, science and technology studies, politics, and public policy.

BRIAN RAPPERT is an Associate Professor of Science, Technology and Public Affairs in the Department of Sociology and Philosophy at the University of Exeter. His long term interest has been the examination of how choices can and are made about the regulation of technologies in conditions of uncertainty and disagreement.

Introduction: What Should Be Done? * PART I: SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND SOCIAL INQUIRY * The Dilemmas of Dual Use Research * Discussing Science * Inquiry, Engagement and Education * PART II: THE CONVERSATIONS: THEMES AND ACTIONS * Learning to Respond * Openness and Constraint * Neutrality and Bias * Expertise and Equality * PART III: THE LIMITS OF METHOD * Conclusion