Theme
The governance of global biotechnology poses ethical and political questions. Businesses, universities, and non-governmental organizations are collaborating to produce a 'science-industrial complex' in biotechnology. In his book on biotechnology policy, Darrell West argues that much of this biotech activity is global in nature and independent of state control. This shift in the relative influence of state and non-state actors has led to the virtual deregulation of biotechnology and the liberation of innovation from geo-political constraints. On the other hand, international organizations, such as WHO and UNESCO, claim their leadership in setting ethical and policy guidance for this 'science-industrial complex'.

On the basis of these premises, the workshop will explore the role of international organizations, governments, professional organizations and civil society in regulating research and development. In particular, the workshop will explore on multicultural issues and differences between Eastern and Western ethics.

The workshop is introduced by a number of formal presentations followed by a round-table discussion when all attendees are invited to participate.

Call for Papers
We encourage participants to present a short paper at the workshop. If you are interested, please send an expression of interested as soon as possible to boggio@stanfordalumni.org.

Registration
The workshop is open and free of charge to all who wish to attend. Interested persons must confirm their participation by Friday July 13 by contacting Jennifer Plante (jlaplant@bryant.edu or 401-232-6464).

For more information (including program and accommodation): http://web.bryant.edu/~aboggio/workshop.html