Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor 2003

We are living during a time of rapid technological change. Emerging technologies---notably information and life science technologies---have profound social, political and ethical implications. Public perceptions of emerging technologies are potentially volatile, as demonstrated in the controversies around genetically modified foods and stem cell research. The Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor was developed by the Australian Centre for Emerging Technologies and Society (ACETS) at Swinburne University of Technology. It provides an annual ‘snapshot’ of public perceptions regarding new technologies in Australia. The 2003 Monitor is the inaugural edition of the Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor. It provides a benchmark for future editions. The Monitor will provide an opportunity to understand how and why public perceptions change in relation to new technologies. This report was prepared by ACETS in association with Peak Performers. It was supported by a grant from the Chancellery Strategic Grants Scheme at Swinburne University of Technology. It was also assisted by a grant from the Public Awareness Grants Program in the Victorian Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development. [Introduction]