Defending the Commons

Born out of the first meeting of five activists regarding the "Business of Science" symposium being held October 27-28th 2005 at the Fairmont Hotel, "Enclosing the Commons" begins with  a belief that science should be critical, and the commons should be for all...not for sale.

While the Business of Science symposium is two days long, the issues of biotechnology, nanotechnology and the pharmeceutical industries are bound to have long term effects on the economy of Manitoba, and devastating effects the world over. If the Manitoba government supports paying millions of dollars of funding profitable private corporations the balanced approach should require equal funding for critical debate and public scrutiny of this practice labelled as science.

Enclosing The Commons is to become a resource for those who wish to challenge the undemocratic and unscientific approach that multinational industries have, which amount to a well funded PR campaign. It will also act as a resource for those who wish to create a critical look at the science behind biotech and nanotech within the media and the public and it's broader ramifications.

Our first goal is to create opposition, criticism, and awareness to the BofS symposium. We invite participation in an educational campaign, pressure to hold accountable those affecting public safety through a little debated subject,  establishment of sound, well researched methods. In short we are calling for a scientific, democratic, critical public engagement of these technologies and the way it affects our lives.