The regulation of emerging technologies: is it possible to stem the tide?

Abstract

Legal norms, generally, go very far behind social relations. By the time a norm comes to see the light, it is quite possible that the situation that it intends to regulate has changed and this - the norm - is outdated and ineffective from its very birth. Well, let us think the more difficult is the relationship between Law and emerging technologies; since, in order for them to be effectively regulated, it is necessary that there is a noticeable degree of anticipation on the part of the legislator. The task seems unfeasible, however, we believe that it is possible and essential to find, among the international legal acquis, a minimum standard establish the margins of action of scientific work, without suppose a brake for progress.