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Public debates about nanotechnology
Netherlands: http://www.nanopodium.nl
France: http://debatpublic-nano.org
Research Design
Nanoscience and nanotechnologies hold the promise of major advances for humanity in the coming decades. The expectations typically include improvements in industrial manufacturing techniques, creation and development of lighter and stronger materials, powerful information technology which will be available everywhere, more effective medical screening and targeted drug delivery, optimization of transportation, aviation and space exploration, maximization of agricultural productivity with respect to the environment, as well as improved security for citizens and enhanced protection for soldiers. Yet, despite these apparent potential benefits, nanotechnologies also raise profound questions and concerns about their ethical, legal, and social implications. For instance, with pervasive devices and environments in the making, who will control access to personal information? Given the potential of biosensors for early diagnostic testing, should unwelcome medical information be made available to every patient or do individuals have the right not to know? As new materials and products are designed and constructed, what is their possible impact on health and the environment? More generally, who should determine what nanotechnology research and what sorts of applications can and should be developed?
The NanoSoc research consortium seeks to understand and address these issues by calling for an early and informed dialogue between nanotechnology researchers, social scientists, Technology Assessment experts, industry representatives, policy makers, Non-Governmental Agencies, and interested citizens in Flanders, Belgium. The overarching aim is to clarify the opportunities and challenges involved in the constructive social shaping of what is heralded as an immensely powerful, groundbreaking technology.
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