The swift and profound advancement of technology in the contemporary world poses distinctive challenges for the law, especially in the realm of frontier technologies. These technologies encompass robotics, the internet of things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, genomics, and augmented/virtual reality, and their rapid development presents unprecedented opportunities and risks.

While crucial for addressing global challenges (climate change, e.g.), these technologies also carry the potential to exacerbate inequality and disrupt societal norms. Ethical and social considerations in regulating technology often clash with prevailing narratives, influenced by culture, society, religion, mass media, and the law.

Narratives such as the belief in technological progress shaping a better future can overshadow potential risks. Similarly, the notion that technology is neutral and its use depends solely on humans overlooks the inherent biases in its design. These narratives influence perspectives on technology regulation, with supporters of progress narratives often advocating for deregulation, while those concerned about risks lean towards stricter oversight.