In Pursuit of Nanoethics

This volume assembles an interdisciplinary team of leading academics, industry figures, policymakers and NGO’s to consider the legal, ethical and social issues that are raised by innovations in nanoscience and nanotechnology. By bringing together international experts from a diverse range of fields this volume addresses the implications and impact that nanotechnology has on society. Through the exploration of six key themes the contributors analyse both the impact of nanotechnology and the emergence of the concept of nanoethics. Each section includes authors from both sides of the political and scientific divide – incorporating both positive and negative perspectives on nanotechnology, as well as including discussions of associated concepts such as converging technologies. The result provides for the widest and most balanced discussion of these issues to date

In Pursuit of Nanoethics: An Introduction.. 7

Bert Gordijn and Anthony Mark Cutter   7

 

 

Part 1

Concepts and Novelty.. 17

 

On the Novelty of Nanotechnology: A Philosophical Essay. 19

Joachim Schummer   19

Does nanotechnology require a new "Nanoethics"?. 31

Søren Holm   31

GM Food and Nanotechnology. 38

Ronald Sandler   38

 

 

Part 2

Opportunities and Challenges.. 55

 

Nanomedicine and Body Modification: Critical Perspectives.. 57

Melanie Latham   57

Nanotechnology and Biodiversity. 67

Darryl Macer   67

Nanotechnologically Enhanced Combat Systems: The Downside of Invulnerability. 79

Robert Simpson and Robert Sparrow    79

 

 

Part 3

Risks and Precaution... 91

 

Risk, Precaution, and Nanotechnology. 93

Fritz Allhoff  93

The Risks of Nanomedicine and the Precautionary Principle. 112

Roberto Andorno and Nikola Biller-Andorno   112

Ethical and Societal Values in Nanotoxicology. 124

Kevin C. Elliott  124

 

 

Part 4

Public Debate and Policy.. 138

Nanotechnology, Risk and Public Perceptions.. 140

Philip Macnaghten   140

Unlocking the futures of nanotechology. Future-oriented narratives and access to the public discourse on nanoscale. 152

Simone Arnaldi  152

Nanotechnology and ethics - European public policies.. 161

Henk ten Have  161