The Duality of Technology in Our Geopolitical Landscape

The pervasive use of technology introduces a dual-use paradigm, where its applications can either serve benevolent or malicious purposes. This chapter explores the contemporary Cold War dynamics between the United States and China, particularly in the realm of technology, and its impact on science policies. The geopolitical analysis emphasizes potential negative consequences for international research collaboration, particularly in addressing urgent global challenges like climate change. The article contends that the beneficial aspect of dual-use technologies, intended to solve complex problems, is at risk due to geopolitical tensions, hindering collaborative efforts required for meaningful advancements of solutions. The blurred lines between defence and security, emerging and established technologies, and the intentions behind their use are explored wherein the discussion underscores the contextual nature of these dualities in a world characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). Policy reactions that follow are a natural measure to facilitate openness in science and technology collaborations. As an example, the Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern policy issued in 2024. Yet there rests the potential for unintended effects on basic research accessibility for curbing global scale challenges and innovations for the greater good.