Confluence: Where communication, coupling and control collide

by Andrew Maynard | Jun 26, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Rethinking Science & Technology

Part 7 of a series on rethinking science and technology for the 21st century Yesterday, I listened to respected economists discussing geoengineering; gave a Skype interview on nanotechnology from the comfort of my own home; and watched as reactions to Michael...

Would you use mental ability-enhancing drugs? Take the (anonymous) poll:

by Andrew Maynard | Jun 19, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Human Enhancement

Poll closed 26 June – see the results below.  I’ll be writing on this in a week or so Would you – or do you – use drugs like Ritalin, donepezil or modafinil to improve your mental ability? I’m interested in getting a sense of current use...

Nanotechnology: Ensuring success through safety

by Andrew Maynard | Jun 16, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Nanotechnology, Policy, Public Perception

This month’s issue of the magazine Science & Technology takes a closer look at some of the controversies, dilemmas and decisions that will impact on the future development of the science and technology of working at the nanoscale.  Amongst the commentaries...

Geoengineering: Are we grown up enough to handle it?

by Andrew Maynard | Jun 14, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Geoengineering, Recommended

If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to unite global warming “denialists” on both sides of the aisle, it’s geoengineering – the intentional planet-wide manipulation of the environment.  At least, you might be left with that...

Nanoscale control: Leveraging biology

by Andrew Maynard | Jun 1, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Nanotechnology, Rethinking Science & Technology, Synthetic Biology

Part 6 of a series on rethinking science and technology for the 21st century The story so far: We are facing an unprecedented confluence of three factors that are forcing us to rethink how we develop and use science and technology to the benefit of society.  Coupling...

Roll over nanotechnology, synthetic biology is coming!

by Andrew Maynard | May 18, 2009 | Emerging Technology, Nanotechnology, Recommended, Synthetic Biology

So you’re looking for a new technology concept—something that will stimulate research funding, make a buck or two, and maybe save the world—at least for another year or so.  What do you need? Here’s a quick checklist: Something that’s revolutionary. Evolutionary...