The establishment of the Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology (henceforth DSET) in 2023 was a result of the working of a task force for the Science and Technology White Paper commissioned by the Minister of Science and Technology in 2022. Referring to global trends and Taiwan’s research capabilities, the participants identified seven crucial emerging and advanced science and technology research areas, including semiconductors and quantum technology, space and low-orbit satellite technology, information security, artificial intelligence, dual-use technology, precision medicine, and net-zero-related technology. This White Paper differs from the previous ones by emphasizing how research and development of these technologies involve reciprocal exchanges with environmental issues, geopolitics, national security, economic growth, and social changes. The DSET’s mission is to study the dynamic interrelationships between science and technology and these other dimensions and to propose policy recommendations based on solid research, according to one of the major conclusions of this White Paper.
