Submitted by Martha (not verified) on April 7, 2006 - 16:22.
The precautionary principle works if there is something to be cautious about. However many products of nano(bio)technology are what are termed complex systems - the problem with complex systems is that they are inherently unpredictable and you can only see what there outcomes are by 'running' them. Naturally the outcome might be good, bad or indifferent, but never predictable. Hence I would prefer we follow Sean Howard proposed radical and ambitious solution – a treaty on the Prohibition of Nanotechnological Exploration and Engineering of Inner (Atomic and Molecular) Space. “Instead of reserving the nanosphere for peaceful human exploitation, it would seek its preservation as a natural 'wilderness' environment, treating any exploitation as a criminal violation of sanctuary." Now that would be something
precautionary principle not enough!
The precautionary principle works if there is something to be cautious about. However many products of nano(bio)technology are what are termed complex systems - the problem with complex systems is that they are inherently unpredictable and you can only see what there outcomes are by 'running' them. Naturally the outcome might be good, bad or indifferent, but never predictable. Hence I would prefer we follow Sean Howard proposed radical and ambitious solution – a treaty on the Prohibition of Nanotechnological Exploration and Engineering of Inner (Atomic and Molecular) Space. “Instead of reserving the nanosphere for peaceful human exploitation, it would seek its preservation as a natural 'wilderness' environment, treating any exploitation as a criminal violation of sanctuary." Now that would be something