Nanotechnology: Environmental, Health and Ethical Issues

摘要

At present, nanotechnology is one of the most fast developing fields of technology with many potential applications in medicine, energy, water and wastewater treatment, manufacturing and communication. Like any novel technology, it raises ethical issues; and the probable benefits and harms are more and more discussed, as well as its repercussions for international relations in science and technology policies. The paper demonstrates the need for productive interactions between science and humanities in order to avoid mutual deformations and misunderstandings. In order to maximize the benefits that can be expected from nanotechnology, it becomes crucial to discuss the environmental impact and health issues. The paper investigates the prospects and trtreats of nanotechnology in products and applications that involve human contact or that rrtey affect the environment. The necessity of public engagement and educational strategies for nanotechnology is brought into attention. The need for ample ethics education of scientists is commonly stressed.