Is a convivial synthetic biology possible

Bibliographic Data

ID15736250
AuthorsMatthew J Tarnowski (0000-0002-1640-2181, University of Bristol), M Pansera (0000-0002-3806-1381, Universidade de Vigo, corresponding author)
Year2024
Volume11
Issue1
Publication date2024-05-26
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Responsible Innovation (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2329-9037 • E-ISSN: 2329-9460
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/23299460.2024.2351233
OpenAlexW4399052312
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited43

Synthetic biology predominantly follows a market-driven approach, both within the private sector and academia. We present a research journey undertaken by a synthetic biologist who received guidance from responsible innovation scholars, reflecting on the wider effects of synthetic biology technologies. The outcome is a re-evaluation of synthetic biology through the lens of ‘conviviality’, a concept introduced by Ivan Illich to designate a modern society of responsibly limited tools, where individual freedom is realised through personal interdependence. We find that in its current form, synthetic biology is not convivial since it relies on centralisation, monopolies and technologies which have the capacity to negatively affect the biosphere and its inhabitants. We argue that a broader conception of biotechnology, beyond genetics, is needed to conceive convivial biotechnologies. In our research journey we explore a range of approaches for responsible biotechnology innovation, which includes open-source, commons-based, decentralised organisations, and post-growth models

Biology · Biosphere · Centralisation · Commons · Computational biology · Engineering ethics · Political science · Sociology · Synthetic biology · CRISPR and Genetic Engineering · Engineering · Innovation, Sustainability, Human-Machine Systems · Law · Neuroethics, Human Enhancement, Biomedical Innovations · Ecology

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