Book excerpt: A thought-provoking discussion of the various ways in which science, technology, and medicine influence social philosophies and choices. Social attitudes, values, and ethics are analysed for their roles in decision- and policy-making. Citing case studies -- the continuing debate surrounding sociobiology, the role of peer review in formulating recombinant DNA research policy, societal guidance of medical experimentation, and the application of risk assessment to nuclear reactor safety -- Lowrance argues that society will be better served by a technical stewardship that extends beyond narrowly defined concepts of responsibility. This book will be of great interest to a wide range of medical researchers, scientists, ethicists, and lay readers.