The societal prospects of ecogenomics
The societal profile of ecogenomics
Combining ecology and molecular biology generates a new area of science: ecogenomics. Using the knowledge from both disciplines can improve the study of microbial life in the soil and other complex ecosystems. However, both areas have their own unique approach and language. Ecologists have long been used to viewing nature from a holistic perspective, whereas molecular biologists employ a deterministic approach to unravel nature's secrets.
Starting point for this project is to study the mutual relationship between ecology and molecular biology in ecogenomics. Does ecogenomics embody a true synthesis between the two fields or does it actually originate from one of them. Next, the focus turns to philosophy of technology. Thanks to ecogenomics, life in the soil (still largely unknown) can be made visible. But what are the consequences of man probing still deeper into nature? The work of philosopher Peter Sloterdijk is used to formulate an answer. Finally, this project will study the societal prospects of ecogenomics. By involving citizens already at an early stage in the developments in this new field, potential societal hurdles can be identified in a timely manner.
Start project: August 2008