Experimental Secrets

Experimental Secrets addresses an unsettling question asked in recent years about the revolutionary potential of modern biotechnology: might the knowledge being gained be used to further—rather than prevent—the spread of disease? In other words, might the life sciences become the death sciences? To avert this prospect, many governments, science agencies, and others have proposed that researchers should subscribe to new codes of conduct. Experimental Secrets recounts five years of international efforts to devise such codes. These initiatives have raised a question of profound significance: Are there limits to what should be known or communicated in the name of security? To convey the experiences of policy-making, Experimental Secrets offers a marked departure from traditional forms of writing. It seeks to convey a sense of what has been at stake with codes through ways of writing that question the conventions of statecraft, science, and social research. Different styles of writing, formats of texts, and points of views are mixed in an effort to convey the tensions, frustrations, and promises associated with international diplomatic efforts. It will be of interest to those concerned with the relation between science and security as well as the possibilities for social research. Cover: "Making the Impossible Possible." Image from the Tissue Culture & Art Project "The Pig Wings," wherein pig bone marrow stem cells were cultivated into miniature models of wings. The different wings represent the horrific (bat wing), angelic (bird wing) and obsolete (dinosaur wing). The TC&A is hosted at SymbioticA The Centre of Excellence in Biological Arts, School of Anatomy and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia.

Very distinctive and original in its mixture of narrative, storytelling, and abstract theorizing. A fascinating read that follows bio-security policy making from behind the scenes through the interactions of academics, scientists and policy makers that accentuates the multiple worlds of policy making. It is extremely relevant today as it addresses issues that are happening in secret or outside the public eyes and ears that have the potential to impact every global citizen., Dr. Rappert is the antithesis of an academic looking from the outside in. Experimental Secrets is a compelling and hilarious account of Rappert's first-hand engagement with the world of biological weapons negotiations and how the people and institutions doing them develop meaning, knowledge and, on that basis, courses of action. It should be required reading for anyone engaged in weapons negotiations, or for that matter, any negotiations.

Brian Rappert is associate professor of science, technology, and public affairs in the Department of Sociology and Philosophy at the University of Exeter.