"The Unbottled Gene"
University of London Forum
on Genetic Engineering

- A Step Ahead of Evolution?

A series of evening public debates from Monday 8th to Friday 12th March 1999.

The series is meant to be an informed participatory discourse looking at genetic engineering from a range of different perspectives, attempting to bridge the gap between academic, business and public interests whilst engaging in an open exchange of opinions and concerns. When our group conceived this series we thought that having five differently themed evenings would allow for an appropriately detailed public debate without losing any part of the wide range of arguments. Each evening will feature a debate dedicated to a set topic including issues of agriculture and food, ecology, international trade, patenting regimes and genetic therapy.

Genetic Engineering in the Global Environment. (Monday 8th)
How do genetically engineered crops relate to different types of farming practice, such as intensive agriculture, organic and subsistence farming? What are the likely consequences on the supply chain of food production, distribution and consumption? The concerns calling for labelling and segregation of products and the adequacy of relevant regulatory measures will be discussed. (Click here for deails)

Release of Transgenic Organisms. (Tuesday 9th)
What are the fundamental differences of transgenic organisms to naturally occurring varieties? What improvements are scientists aiming for in genetically modified organisms? How do inserted genes behave with regards to ecosystems and cross-species transfer? The approval process for field trials and commercial crops and concerns on threats to biodiversity will be examined. (Click here for details)

International Legislation and Genetic Engineering. (Wednesday 10th)
International Agreements related to trade with genetically engineered products, patent issues and intellectual property rights surrounding relevant biotechnological innovations will be discussed. How are technical and ethical implications specific to genetic engineering accounted for in international legislation? What are effectively the consequences of existing agreements on developing regions and the rights of indigenous peoples? (Click here for details)

Genetic Engineering and its Future Role in Medicine. (Thursday 11th)
What is the potential of genetic engineering research into human health for finding new treatments and diagnostics? Are hopes for new cures available to all realistic promise or pretense? How does genetic science change the traditional perception of the human being and its development? The role of responsibility of the scientist will be discussed regarding the ethical dimensions of genetic screening, therapy, and the potential for misuse. (Click here for details)

A Speed Limit for Science? (Friday 12th)
What are the benefits of rushing headlong into a new era of technology fraught with uncertain consequences? Is a 'speed limit' of scientific and technological progress desirable and feasible, as the proponents for moratoria on commercial crops and cloning say? What lessons can we learn from past technological revolutions? Followed by the ULgenix art experience with contributions from Central St Martins Art and Design students. (Click here for details)

Home Details