Description
Book SynopsisThe Economics of Biotechnology is a highly accessible book dealing with some of the most crucial issues to arise in this area. Special attention is paid to consumer, ethical and environmental concerns as well as questions relating to trade policy, intellectual property, who will receive the benefits, international development and the role of international institutions such as the WTO.
The authors examine concerns arising from the application of biotechnology in the agri-food industrial complex, and many of the issues discussed also have implications for the medical and pharmaceutical aspects of biotechnology.
Fundamental questions regarding the application of standard economic analysis to biotechnology are resolved using traditional neo-classical analyses as well as less mainstream methods. Through exploring a number of approaches, original and unexpected conclusions are reached.
This coherent and relevant treatment of the myriad facets of biotechnology will be welcomed by academics, scholars, and economists with a specific interest in international economics or technology, international policymakers, and economic commentators.
Trade Review'The authors are to be commended for a timely book on the economics of agricultural biotechnology. . . Gaisford et al
have provided a good starting point of particular relevance to economists who are seeking an initial conceptual perspective from which to comprehend the subject.' -- W. Lesser, Cornell University, US
'The book does an excellent job at addressing all three levels from an efficiency and equity point of view . . . Readers with a background in biotechnology but less knowledge in economics will find it very useful, as well as economists who are interested in the key economic issues of biotechnology . . . I agree with the publisher that the addressed audience will welcome and like the book, and I can highly recommend it.' -- Justus Wesseler, European Review of Agricultural Economics
'The book is an absorbing one . . . will give insight on business of biotechnology and related issues, such as ethical issues, IPR etc and to economist and market researchers with specified interest in biotechnology. This could be also useful for international policymakers/planners and economic commentators.' -- Ashok Pandey, Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research
Table of ContentsContents: Preface 1. Biotechnology 2. Intellectual Property 3. The Environment 4. Consumer Issues 5. Ethical Concerns 6. Who Gets the Biotechnology Rents? 7. International Issues 8. Economics and the Future of Biotechnology References Index
