Gene Technology at Stake

Ever since its inception in the early 1970s, gene technology has engendered societal hopes and expectations as well as fears and doubts. This book examines the Swedish political response to these challenges, seen through the prism of governmental commissions. The study takes into account the role of governmental commissions as arenas where science and politics intersect in Swedish political life, and illuminates how this type of boundary organisation impinges on gene technology policy....
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Ever since its inception in the early 1970s, gene technology has engendered societal hopes and expectations as well as fears and doubts. This book examines the Swedish political response to these challenges, seen through the prism of governmental commissions. The study takes into account the role of governmental commissions as arenas where science and politics intersect in Swedish political life, and illuminates how this type of boundary organisation impinges on gene technology policy. The study finds that Swedish gene technology policy has aspired to be democratic but not ideological, rational but not technocratic. However, these distinctions are highly problematic, especially if rational is equated with expert judgements alone or if democratic masks the assumption that only one view can be accurate. The analysis provides insights into the complexities and inherent tensions of controversial science and policy-making, relevant for scientific experts, politicians and the general public alike. It also adds empirical findings to the ongoing discussions within STS circles (Science and Technology Studies) on the role of science in politics and policy.