Nanotechnology: A Gentle Introduction to the Next Big Idea

Nano Ethics: Looking Beyond the Promise of Nanotechnology

As nanotechnology steps onto center stage and the bounty it promises begins to become reality, it will raise several issues of ethics, public policy, law, and social responsibility. Most of the questions aren't new, but nanotechnology increases the urgency and importance of addressing them.

Perhaps the most important questions in the short term will be issues surrounding patents. Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals are two segments of industry that stand to gain a great deal from nano-technology because treatments or even cures for many of the world's most virulent illnesses may be possible through nanotechnology. Under current laws in many countries, developers and research companies can ...