Unit Navigation and Essential Question

How to navigate this unit

This unit has a number of different sections. An "Essential Question" is provided at the beginning; the idea is for you to bear this question in mind while you're going through all the material in this unit. The "Background" section provides an introduction to synthetic biology, what it's currently used for, and what it promises for the future; and also provides an overview of some of the key social and ethical issues raised by synthetic biology. The "Selected Issues In Depth" section examines some of these issues more closely, with film clips from experts in the field. The readings required and recommended to support this unit are available in the "Readings" folder. The Discussion section on synthetic biology will be opened for you and your fellow students at the determined date for discussion in this section. There is also an assessed Case Study on synthetic biology. We have also provided an "Additional Resources" section, with links to other relevant information on synthetic biology including articles and websites.

Unit 2 Essential Question

Does synthetic biology raise new social and ethical questions, either in terms of the creation of artificial life, or the possible consequences of using this technology?

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