Debating a Proposed Moratorium On Synthetic Biology Research

Authors

  • Sanna J. Ali Stanford University

Keywords:

Moratorium, Synthetic, Biology, Risks, Synthetic Biology, Research

Abstract

This essay explores the ethical issues surrounding the public policy debate of imposing a moratorium on synthetic biology research.  In particular, this article explores the risks of synthetic biology research, including those of safety, intellectual property rights, and a shift in the global economy, while assessing whether these risks are dangerous enough to call for a moratorium.

Author Biography

  • Sanna J. Ali, Stanford University
    Sanna, from Orange, CA, will graduate in June 2012 with a B.S. in Science, Technology, & Society.  Her interests include biotechnology, technology policy, and public health. Sanna is currently working on an STS Honors Thesis entitled "Unlocking the Power of Your Genome: Financial and Regulatory Challenges," under Professor Russ Altman. She has enjoyed being involved with campus organizations, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the BCATS (Biomedical Computation at Stanford) Conference Organizing Committee.

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Published

2012-06-14

Issue

Section

Research Articles