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Incentivized technologies not pursued
This is a collection of cases where someone seemingly had a large incentive to pursue a technology, and did not.
Lists
'Resisted technological temptations'
These are cases where incentives to pursue a technology were overcome by concerns about downsides not imminently accruing to the decision-maker (e.g. risks to distant people, ethical concerns). These cases are being collected via the Resisted Technological Temptations Project.
Plausible cases
This is a non-exhaustive list of plausible cases. Inclusion on this list does not imply any degree of confidence.
Geoengineering, many actors, present, scientist opposition inhibits research needed for others' enthusiasm
Chlorofluorocarbons, many actors, 1985-present
Nanotechnology, scientists and governments, five decades ago to present
Airships / Zeppelins
Genetic engineering of humans
Some scientific studies prevented by the burden of IRB / GDPR compliance
Human challenge trials, especially for covid vaccines
Recreational drug development
Dietary restrictions, in most (all?) human cultures
GMOs, in some countries
Atomic gardening
Nuclear power, in some countries
Use of nuclear explosions in construction
Fracking, in some countries
Various weapons (nuclear, chemical, biological, land mines, etc), in some countries and at some times
Investigated cases
Notable failures of rational action or foresight in pursuing technologies
Plausible cases
Investigated cases