ABSTRACT
This chapter describes an alternative approach that is based on experimentation rather than anticipation as a way to deal with the sketched challenges for embedding new technology in society. The introduction of any new technology into society raises several challenges. One challenge is to appropriately deal with the expected and potential benefits and disadvantages. Embedding technology in society may also give raise to large uncertainties. The nature of the uncertainties involved is often of such a kind that they cannot be fully reduced before a technology is introduced in society. Successfully introducing a new technology into society requires the reduction of uncertainty with respect to potential impacts, institutional embedding and normative issues. Epistemological uncertainty can usually be reduced by research and other modes of investigation. Laws and regulations tend to lag behind technological development.
