Human Practices
— NAU-CHINA
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Our IHP work centers on the goals of Be reflective, Be responsible, Be responsive, which
we translate into practical project support through the "Double-Helix Model".
Key Ideas- The model bridges synthetic biology technology and social value, solving the risks of detachment between the two.
- It consists of two interwoven chains:
- Technology Chain provides scientific rigor and ensures feasibility.
- Society Chain anchors ethical standards and social value orientation.
- Their mutual feedback allows dynamic adaptation, enabling the project to evolve in both scientific and social dimensions.
The Core Composition of the "Double-Helix Model"
We believe effective governance requires a clear framework tailored to project needs. The "Double-Helix Model" visualizes the operational logic of Human Practices, where technology and society serve as two interrelated chains.
Technology Chain — Four Progressive Stages
- Project Design: defining the technical scope based on identified practical needs
- Experiment Design: planning experiments with safety and variable control
- Optimization: redesigning and refining parameters based on feedback
- Industrialization: transforming achievements into the market
Society Chain — Four Dimensions
- Stakeholder Needs: identifying and responding to researchers, consumers, enterprises
- Ethical Problems: assessing risks and developing preventive measures
- Prospect Exploration: investigating market trends and industry dynamics
- Promotion: communicating project value through diverse channels
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In the "Double-Helix Model", the Technology Chain and the Society Chain are not parallel tracks, but rather a closed loop of continuous interaction. The Society Chain identifies real-world needs and contradictions, guiding the Technology Chain to adjust experiments and optimization strategies. Conversely, when the Technology Chain encounters technical limitations or conflicts, the Society Chain helps to clarify value orientation and application scenarios. This reciprocal dynamic ensures that the project maintains both scientific feasibility and social relevance throughout its development.
For example:
- When consumers show strong price sensitivity while production cost remains high, the Technology Chain optimizes experimental design through quorum sensing amplification to increase yield and reduce cost.
- When fabric functionality conflicts with comfort, the Society Chain clarifies application scenarios and target groups, ensuring that research and development is aligned with real needs.
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