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Science is a creative enterprise. It combines the exploration of the natural world with the generation of knowledge and its use in human endeavours. This combination of creativity with purpose is exemplified in the field of biotechnology.  But the power of the new discoveries in genetics also raises concerns in many societies as to the ethics and safety of their use, and the risks they may pose to human health, biodiversity and the environment. As a result of these societal concerns, many studies have been commissioned by national academies of science, governments, international organizations and private agencies on various aspects of modern genetics. 

The International Council for Science (ICSU), through its Advisory Committee on Genetic Experimentation and Biotechnology, has conducted a study on new developments in modern genetics and their implications for food and agriculture.  This ICSU study includes an analysis of the findings of more than 50 science-based reviews, published by various national academies of science, international agencies and academic publications between 2000 and 2003.  

The purpose of this analysis is to consider what are the issues that concern various societies, and, on the basis of the science underpinning the discoveries in modern genetics, what are the areas of commonality, what are the areas of divergence and differing perspectives, and where are the gaps in knowledge that may be able to be addressed through additional well targeted research. The ways in which scientific knowledge is communicated and influences public perceptions and policy choices about new technologies are also considered. A major component of the ICSU study is a synthesis report entitled “New Genetics, Food and Agriculture: Scientific Discoveries-Societal Dilemmas”, which was published by ICSU in June 2003.  The synthesis report is accompanied by an extensive annotated bibliography, including access to the original reports analysed, and sources of further information in the rapidly evolving area of gene technology.

Web access to the information is available via the ICSU web site at www.icsu.org. Direct links are also provided to the web sites of the many organizations and publishers who kindly provided access to their publications. Their generosity in making these knowledge resources available for distribution by ICSU is gratefully acknowledged. Further information on the role of science in international development is also available from  www.doylefoundation.org.