Similar to controversy against biotechnology, scientists are forced to consider the ethical issues regarding this upcoming development of synthetic biology. With the manipulation of biological systems, scientists experience many of the same problems regarding basic genetic engineering and biotechnology. Many observers were displeased as these humans appeared to be “playing God” in altering existing life and systems in nature.
This has arisen previously as a social issue, as many religions condemn the handling of biological life in order to benefit the human race. Some opponents, due to religion, believe that the tampering of God’s creations could potentially lead to unnatural beings, perhaps causing future harm to society. For more in depth information regarding the opposition of synthetic biology and biotechnology in general in terms of religion, click here.
Ethical and Social Issues
Security Issues
Even so, scientists are unwilling to sacrifice research in such an area of high potential, as the results and applications of synthetic biology are astounding. Learning from previous encounters with issues in other areas of biotechnology, pursuers of synthetic biology have hoped to increase the security of future research, ensuring the safety of even the regular citizens and also preventing the usage of such technologies in harmful activities. Thus, the Federal Government of the United States established the National Scientific Advisory Board for Biosecurity. Further information regarding the rules and regulations of this organization can be found here.
In addition to the NSABB, a meeting was held in order to supplement the government’s regulations on biological systems; the Second International Meeting on Synthetic Biology (details can be found here) focused on the necessity of self-regulation as well, as users experimenting in the field of synthetic biology must only perform such research with safety in mind, preventing the usage of technology for harmful purposes.
Economic Issues
As a relatively new area of study, synthetic biology currently does not carry a huge amount of funding. Without a concrete set of methods and applications, synthetic biology requires greater encouragement economically in order to thrive. Even so, the current results presently are enough to warrant interest and further popularity, ensuring future support for the technological advancements with this field.
Fortunately, DNA synthesis has grown more widespread over the past years that synthetic biology has thrived, greatly reducing the costs. As the applications of synthetic biology, such as the example of DNA synthesis, become even more recognized the importance and possibilities will capture further interest for funding, countering the economic issues regarding research and development.
Opposition
Indeed, there are also major organizations and groups opposing the field of synthetic biology. One of the largest acts of opposition was marked by the release of a declaration named "The Principles for the Oversight of Synthetic Biology". This was published to give information about the risks of synthetic biology and the necessity of further regulation and awareness.
As a form of "extreme genetic engineering", groups including the Friends of Earth and the International Center for Technology Assessment among over a hundred others believe the developments unsafe, and hope for more severe regulations and even the complete ban of synthetic biology in usage of the human genome.
Issues and Controversy
Though synthetic biology provides many prospects in terms of improving the quality of life, there is also the possible development of detrimental viruses and technology. Thus, organizations such as the NSABB provide regulations that all researchers of synthetic biology should follow, including presenting accurate information, conducting secure research, and making informed choices. Such exploration of synthetic biology requires scientists to remain vigilant of their surroundings, encompassing the effects of this field not only on humans but also the environment and nature.
