The embedding of any new technologies in society is challenging. The evolving state of the scientific art, often-unquantifiable risks and ill-defined developmental trajectories have the potential to hinder innovation and/or the commercial success of a technology. The are, however, a number of tools that can now be utilized by stakeholders to bridge the chasm that exists between the science and innovation dimensions on the one hand, and the societal dimensions on the other. This edited volume will draw together leading researchers from the domains of law, philosophy, political science, public administration and the natural sciences in order to demonstrate how tools such as, for example, constructive technology assessment, regulatory governance and societal scenarios, may be employed by stakeholders to assist in successfully embedding new technologies into society. This volume will focus primarily on the embedding of two emergent and emerging technologies: nanotechnologies and synthetic biology.

Government, industry and the epistemic community continue to struggle with how best to balance the promised benefits of an emerging technology with concerns about its potential impacts. There is a growing body of literature that has examined these challenges from various cultural, scientific and jurisdictional dimensions. There is, however, much work that still needs to be done; this includes articulating the successes and failures of attempts to the societal embedding of technologies and their associated products.

This edited volume is significant and timely, as unlike other books currently on the market, it shall draw from real work experiences and experiments designed anticipate the societal embedding of emerging technologies. This empirical work shall be supported by robust theoretical underpinnings.

With the rapid pace of technological advancement, it is essential for both policymakers and innovators to navigate the complex landscape of societal embedding. In “Embedding Emerging Technologies: A Practical Guide”, editors Diana M. Bowman, Elen Stokes, and Arie Rip bring together a diverse group of experts to shed light on this crucial aspect of technology development.

One of the major challenges faced by new technologies is the disconnect between the realms of science and society. As the editors explain, the evolving nature of scientific progress, coupled with the intangible risks and uncertain development paths, often hinder the successful integration of new technologies into society. However, with the use of various tools, such as constructive technology assessment, regulatory governance, and societal scenarios, stakeholders can bridge this gap and facilitate the embedding of emerging technologies into society.

This volume focuses specifically on the embedding of two highly promising and disruptive technologies: nanotechnology and synthetic biology. By bringing together experts from a wide range of disciplines, including law, philosophy, political science, public administration, and the natural sciences, “Embedding Emerging Technologies” offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to addressing the challenges of societal embedding.

The book examines the balancing act that policymakers, industries, and academic communities must undertake when weighing the potential benefits of new technologies against concerns about their societal impact. While there is already a growing body of literature examining these challenges, “Embedding Emerging Technologies” goes beyond theoretical discussions by presenting real work experiences and experiments that anticipate the societal embedding of emerging technologies. The empirical work presented in this book is further supported by robust theoretical foundations, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and practitioners.

With its focus on two of the most promising and controversial technologies of our time, “Embedding Emerging Technologies” offers unique insights into the complexities of societal embedding. Nanotechnology and synthetic biology have the potential to revolutionize multiple industries and sectors, but their successful integration into society requires careful consideration of their ethical, legal, and regulatory implications.

By delving into the challenges and successes of previous attempts to embed new technologies, this book provides valuable lessons for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers. The editors and contributors highlight the importance of anticipatory governance and responsible innovation, ensuring that the societal embedding of emerging technologies is done in a transparent, inclusive, and ethical manner.

Whether you are a policymaker looking to navigate the complexities of technological integration or an innovator eager to understand the societal implications of your work, “Embedding Emerging Technologies” is an essential guide. With its blend of empirical research and theoretical insights, this book unlocks the potential of societal embedding and paves the way for responsible and sustainable technological development for the benefit of all.

Don’t miss out on this timely and comprehensive resource. Order your copy of “Embedding Emerging Technologies: A Practical Guide” today and stay at the forefront of societal embedding in the rapidly evolving world of technology.