Technological Risks (GMO, Gene Editing), What Is the Problem With Europe? A Broader Historical Perspective

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology Law and Ethics
• History of Technology Regulation

Background:

• Europe frequently originates technological restrictions, notably in biotechnology (genetically modified organisms [GMOs] and gene editing).
• Previous analyses focused on European regulations, neglecting deeper historical and ideological roots.
• Postmodern ideologies emphasizing avoidance of past tragedies influence European approaches to technological risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the historical and ideological origins of European technological restrictions.
• To analyze the transposition of postmodern ideas into scientific risk assessment in Europe.
• To compare European and US approaches to biotechnology regulation.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of European ideology and its influence on science.
• Examination of the concept of technological risk in European policy.
• Comparative analysis of European and US biotechnology legislation.

Main Results:

• European restrictions on technologies like GMOs and gene editing stem from historical context and a specific ideology.
• Postmodern thought, focused on preventing past catastrophes, shapes European views on technological risks.
• The US has not implemented similar biotechnology-inhibiting laws, indicating differing societal and historical drivers.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the deep-rooted historical and ideological factors is crucial for comprehending European technology regulation.
• The divergence in US and European biotechnology laws highlights distinct societal responses to technological advancement and risk.
• Further research can explore the long-term implications of these differing regulatory philosophies.