ABSTRACT
Technologies are related to everyday life, and to the future of socio-economic development, as well as to urgent or pressing problems. Electronics help to make life easier. Biotechnology or genetic engineering may help to overcome diseases. New energy technologies provide for the efficient use of resources and climate protection. Environmental technologies may help to reduce the contamination of soil, air and water. New materials may help to improve existing products, or new transportation systems may allow for cheaper, more efficient and environmentally ‘greener’ travelling. Many technologies or technological improvements also help to modernize industries and products and keep these industries innovative. Since modern nation states are expected to provide policies that allow for economic growth, prosperity, employment, and a sound environment, government policy makers are confronted with changing policy needs of increasing complexity. Still, political parties and different social interests are put into competition during elections, and they aim to convince the electorate with their political programmes and their demands of policy makers.
