Social Issues in Science and Technology: An Encyclopedia

by David E. Newton

A thought-provoking compendium exploring differing views, possible social impacts, and government policy decisions involving the impact of science and technology on human life.The visible progress of civilization often comes with a hidden price. Irradiation kills bacteria, but is it really safe? Power lines bring us electricity, but are there hidden hazards in their electromagnetic fields? Do medical applications of marijuana have measurable health benefits, or do they just encourage drug abuse?
-- Comprehensive coverage includes DNA fingerprinting, drug testing, euthanasia, global warming, needle exchange programs, hazardous waste disposal, psychosurgery, organ transplants, and zero population growth
-- Unbiased treatment of controversial issues such as cloning, fetal tissue research, genetically altered foods, and decriminalization of drugs

Unbound

First published December 1, 1999