Zeroing in on ethical issues in nanotechnology

摘要: Setting aside exaggerated notions of both the benefits and harms to be expected from nanotechnologies, we need focus ethical investigation on specific initiatives at nano scale that are already underway or planned. The aims anticipate issues likely arise in cases, foster sensitivity responsibility among specialists policy makers, stimulate interchange between members public so can become involved. After clarifying what term "nanotechnology" embraces looking cautionary lessons experience with information technologies biotechnology, discussion turns importance anticipating consequences, intended unintended. Although options consider lacking, a brief survey indicates watch out for: preventable harms, conflicts about justice fairness, respect for persons, more specifically, safeguards workers new production processes, intellectual property concerns, preservation university values university/industry relationships, interest. Three main fronts activity needed address issues: 1) incorporating ethics research into development enterprises; 2) devising mechanisms involve their perspectives concerns feed back development; 3) initiating educational efforts every level addressing technical aspects social implications aspects.