Constructing Life

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, by print, photo-print, microfilm or any other means without prior written permission of the holder of the copyright. Preface As the parliamentary technology assessment organization in the Netherlands, the Rathenau Institute is always on the lookout for new scientific developments and technological trends that might have an important impact on society. In recent years, the institute has developed a special interest in topics related to nanotechnology and / or converging technologies. Synthetic biology is a new emerging scientific field where ICT, biotechnology and nanotechnology meet and strengthen each other. The increasing number of people attracted to this field, the growing number of publications in which scientists publish new results and are seeking publicity to advertise their views and ideas, as well as the appearance of review articles in science journals, all indicate that 'something is happening'. In contrast to the 'classical approach' in molecular biology, synthetic biology appears to be an approach that enables the design of new biological systems. In a similar vein to genetic engineering or nanotechnology, synthetic biology raises important social and ethical questions about the possible impact on human health and the environment or possible abuses for biological warfare or terrorist attacks. The introduction of new biological systems can even force us to redefine 'life'. The Rathenau Institute believed that the development of synthetic biology needed to be examined for its scientific and technological significance ; and its potential impact on society. When research started in the spring of 2006, some publications that discussed the role of risk assessment were already available. However, a broader picture of the dynamics in this field, and an investigation of the social and political agenda were still missing. The study Constructing life: early social reflections on the emerging field of synthetic biology, written by Huib de Vriend, is an attempt to fill that gap. It should be seen as a starting point for further international research and debate, for example on the role of the government. The study was written in English as a contribution to a coordinated international approach, including the development of a balanced and effective EU policy. Recently synthetic biology has been gaining prominence on the Dutch political agenda. Arts and Sciences to further investigate the technological developments of synthetic biology. 5 within the current debate. The Rathenau Institute will contribute to this debate by publishing …