Applying the Precautionary Principle to Nanotechnology

ABSTRACT: The development of general-purpose molecular manufacturing through nanotechnology carries numerous risks, including the production of potentially unhealthy nanoparticles, the possible creation of tiny, destructive, self-replicating robots, and many others. The Precautionary Principle is often invoked when dealing with situations that might be hazardous; however, the label “Precautionary Principle” is attached to at least two different ideas, which must be analyzed separately. This paper discusses two forms of the Precautionary Principle, which we will call the “strict form” and the “active form”, and relates them to the purpose of the Center for Responsible Nanotechnology, and to CRN’s policy recommendations.

http://www.crnano.org/papers.htm