Thursday 23 July 08:15
- 09:45
Hall: 21 - Room 18
Chair and Presenter:
Karasawa Kaori
Discussant:
Di Fabio Annamaria
Division: Division 3: Psychology and Societal Development
The rapid advancement of emerging science and technology has the potential to enrich human life, enhance individual and collective well-being, and contribute meaningfully to the resolution of complex societal challenges. However, such progress also poses significant risks to fundamental human values—such as autonomy and fairness—and, in extreme cases, may threaten human survival itself, potentially leading to irreversible consequences in the course of human history. In light of these dual aspects of technological development, there is a growing need for interdisciplinary approaches aimed at identifying both current and foreseeable ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) associated with science and technology. These approaches must also explore viable responses and future pathways to ensure responsible innovation. Reflecting this global concern, many countries have formulated and implemented science and technology policies under the guiding principles of ELSI and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI), with the goal of fostering industrial creation and societal transformation through science and technology. This symposium presents the outcomes of one such initiative in Japan: the RInCA Program (Responsible Innovation with Conscience and Agility), a comprehensive and practice-oriented research and development effort addressing ELSI, promoted by Research Institute of Science and Technology for Society (RISTEX), Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). In addition to showcasing the achievements of this program, the symposium will facilitate discussions on the societal implications and challenges posed by cutting-edge psychological research, including developments in neuroscience. Through these discussions, we aim to deepen our understanding of the role and responsibility of psychology as a specialized discipline in guiding better decision-making in the research, development, and implementation of science and technology. By integrating ELSI considerations and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, we seek to contribute to the realization of responsible innovation that aligns with societal values and aspirations.
