Abstract
By focusing on the project ``technology and culture'' and in particular, the collaborative research in progress, called ``explication of the cultural dimension on Biotechnology Policy'', this paper looks at the interrelationship between science and human society. Science has affected human society in various ways, but conversely, this paper stresses that social, economic and political movement have affected science as well, and that some negative aspects of modern technology arise from the reciprocity between these processes. Biotechnology is a most suitable for this theme because its development and its applications to industry and agriculture have brought about the social intensities. Many groups concerned have demanded the priority of policy valuation, which was based on different cultural context and value. This paper deals with relative research to analyze a link between culture and technology, as well. Furthermore basic research to clarify the definition and concept of policy should be essential. The project described above attempts to clarify the arguments of scientists, bureaucrats, and the general public on Biotechnology Policy. How can ``cultural criticism'' be accepted for the science policy? This paper distinguishes between macro-level culture and micro-level culture. Macro-level arguments are valuable for international technological power. Micro-level ones are important because they include systematic framework and social values on science & technological activities. From this paper it can be seen that the empirical research on Biotechnology Policy in U.S.A. offers some cultural features and it will be helpful for Japan.
