doi:10.1080/10438599.2015.1133042engAlmudi, I.Fatás-Villafranca, F.Sánchez-Choliz, J.A formal discussion of the Sarewitz-Nelson rulesART-2016-94906In this paper, we formally discuss the Sarewitz-Nelson rules for technological fixes (SN-rules). In their original form, the SN-rules were formulated from an implicit theoretical framework such that they define a broad technology assessment heuristic. This formulation has advantages and disadvantages. In this work, we propose that it is possible to make advances in the interpretation and use of the SN-rules, if we formally consider them as a procedure for technology screening, integrated within a wider process of technology choice and policy-making. This conception helps us to assess the nature and applicability of the SN-rules in different contexts, and allows us to position them as a contribution to the economic theory of technology policy.2016http://zaguan.unizar.es/record/13093710.1080/10438599.2015.1133042http://zaguan.unizar.es/record/130937oai:zaguan.unizar.es:130937info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/DGA/S10Economics of innovation and new technology 25, 7 (2016), 714-730All rights reservedhttp://www.europeana.eu/rights/rr-f/info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess