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The field of medical technology assessment is rapidly developing and, within the area of reproductive technology, the issues are extremely complex. These sophisticated technologies involve the genetic manipulation of human germ cells and fertilized eggs, and may have irreversible effects on future gener ations. The example of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is used Although still considered 'experimental' by some countnes (an opinion shared by the World Health Organization), in Denmark this is now considered standard treatment for infertile women. The procedure is expensive, there are unknown risks, and the consequences are far-reaching. A feminist oriented assessment of this as well as of all other reproductive technologies is needed because IVF deals directly with the female body; via the female body, IVF and other reproductive technologies change the social relations between the sexes; they change the concepts of maternity and paternity, and they are the key to the age of genetic engineering of the human body and human race.

Just what should technology assessment involve? Analyses of information technology in offices show that it is not enough to be concerned with the technology itself. On the contrary, the hierarchy in the work between men and women, as well as the way in which the work is organized, should be a major issue in any attempt at technology assessment. Technology reflects both the capitalist and sexual power structure.

This article adopts a prospective approach in an attempt to explore the potential benefit of citizen involvement in decision making concerning future drug R&D. This is one of the first Delphi studies to fully utilize internet technology to collect and process data. The results show an increasing individual autonomy among respondents, which also affects the drug R&D process in general. Human, liberal and ethical values are reported as crucial values to citizens. On this basis, respondents reported that patient organizations, representative citizen groups and ethical councils can contribute with important input to ensure these values in decision making concerning future drug R&D. Paying attention to citizen needs, demands and ideas may protect the research, development and eventual marketing of unacceptable drugs on a societal and ethical level.