How are pharmaceutical technologies developed and controlled in our societies? To what extent should the availability of these technologies be determined by scientific experts, a democratic state, the interests of final users, or ethical principles? This unique collection brings together the work of social scientists, ethicists, lawyers, and policy analysts on regulation, ethics and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. Regulatory systems and their implications for public health in North America, Europe, and developing countries are discussed, including case studies of norplant, interferon, and anti-fertility vaccines.

The papers which make up the chapters of this book were given at a seminar in Oxford. The event took place following the election of the first Labour government for 17 years and following an announcement of the consultation process leading up to the publication of a Transport White Paper. The debates in the book contain reflections on the legacy of the previous administration and the challenges facing the new government.