Science, technology, and society

Robotic technology offers new capabilities and greater convenience, but at the same time, it threatens our jobs and perhaps even our identity as human beings.

Scientists and entrepreneurs are experimenting with new renewable breakthroughs to supplement wind, solar, and hydroelectric power as alternatives to fossil fuels.

Smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices are rapidly changing how people communicate, socialize, and obtain information. However concerns about privacy, access, and control of information have been heightened by our being always connected and constantly tracked.

Because the Internet and how it is used is constantly changing, many people believe that the Internet’s impact has just begun, with many more changes to come.

Gene therapy is still largely experimental, very expensive, and, in some instances, extremely risky. Yet it remains the focus of much research and societal debate because it offers great promise for treating and preventing a number of hereditary diseases and conditions.