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Ministry of NanoEthics?

Posted by CmdrTaco on from the stuff-to-read dept.

hlovy writes "Here's part of a blurb that promotes, Nanotechnology: Atom and Eve in the Garden of Eden," an upcoming conversation between Foresight Institute founder Eric Drexler and ETC Group head Pat Mooney: "Recent studies indicate that nanoscale materials now being commercialized pose potential hazards for human health and the environment." The "studies" were actually incomplete surveys of inconclusive toxicology reports, commissioned by ETC Group, itself. Even Greenpeace admits that no complete scientific study of the toxicity of nanomaterials has been yet been performed. Read Howard Lovy's NanoBot for commentary."

3 of 171 comments (clear)

  1. Nanotech can be dangerous by kinnell · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Nanoscale particles can pass through the skin, and therefore can be dangerous if the particles in question contain toxic substances. It is important that this is studied proerly and the appropriate regulations put in place before manufacturers start selling us carcinogenic toothpaste. It's also refreshing that they're addressing real issues, rather than paranoid sci-fi nonsense like grey goo.

    --
    If I seem short sighted, it is because I stand on the shoulders of midgets
  2. Fear? by henbane · · Score: 5, Interesting
    Why do these people assume that scientists have no ethics? Is it currently possible to do research in a cutting edge field without moronic protestors telling you what you are doing is wrong and stirring up the general public to believe you are breaking the laws of nature?

    GM foods bad! Embryo research bad! Cloning bad! And now Nanotech bad too. Obviously scientists have no morality or sense of social responsibility. Arse!

  3. Common Problem.. by Talia+Starhawke · · Score: 5, Interesting
    I have to admit, when I first learned about nanotechnology, I thought it was cool, but I didn't truly understand it. I don't really think I understand it still, after doing a bit of research on the subject.

    It's similar to a lot of technology that has really become commonplace in the media. Recently, a local TV news headline in my area had the audacity to say, "Food from Cloned Animals... IS IT SAFE?" Everyone in the room who knew a bit about cloning rolled their eyes. But later that evening, my grandmother called me, wanting to know if I was going to watch the broadcast.

    "Recent studies indicate that nanoscale materials now being commercialized pose potential hazards for human health and the environment."

    Yeah, and milk from cloned cows is going to make you grow three stomachs! Details at 10!

    --
    +5, Female ;)