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Genomics in Cyprus: Challenging the social norms

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  • Bornik, Zosia B.
  • Dowlatabadi, Hadi

Abstract

Several recent situations illustrate how social norms can be made unstable as a result of breakthrough scientific advances such as genetic technologies. Technological advances can trigger the emergence of new solutions to complex problems, but in the process may challenge previously held norms. The prevention of β-Thalassaemia in the social setting of Cyprus serves as a case study. A decision framework is outlined, which shows how norms are revised in response to pressing challenges and new opportunities made possible by technological progress. We compare prevention programmes in the UK and Iran, and suggest why certain countries are more likely to revisit their norms than others if given the opportunities that preventive technologies can offer.

Suggested Citation

  • Bornik, Zosia B. & Dowlatabadi, Hadi, 2008. "Genomics in Cyprus: Challenging the social norms," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 30(1), pages 84-93.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:30:y:2008:i:1:p:84-93
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2007.10.007
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ellison, Glenn & Fudenberg, Drew, 1993. "Rules of Thumb for Social Learning," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 101(4), pages 612-643, August.
    2. Azar, Ofer H., 2004. "What sustains social norms and how they evolve?: The case of tipping," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 54(1), pages 49-64, May.
    3. Sethi, Rajiv, 1996. "Evolutionary stability and social norms," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 29(1), pages 113-140, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Sara Kivity & Sivia Barnoy, 2023. "Women’s Intention to Abort a Fetus Diagnosed With a Genetic Disease: Results From Israel, Cyprus, and Germany," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(3), pages 21582440231, July.

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