report
2.0 Individual and collective responsibility for nanotechnology

ObservatoryNano

Individual and collective responsibility for nanotechnology

First Annual Report on Ethical and Social Aspects of Nanotechnology

Authors:

Ineke Malsch, Malsch TechnoValuation

Kristian Hvidtfelt Nielsen,

Department of Science Studies, University of Aarhus

ObservatoryNano project, 30 March 2009 

Table of contents

Individual and collective responsibility for nanotechnology

First Annual Report on Ethical and Social Aspects of Nanotechnology

Table of Contents

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. The concept of responsibility in ethics and social studies of science and technology

2.1 Philosophical debate on responsibility and technology

2.2 Precaution

2.3 Sustainability

2.4 Governance

3. Governance

4. Responsibility issues in current nanoscience and nanotechnology

5. Analysis

5.1 Choosing priorities in nanotechnology research

5.2 Precaution, risk, dual use

5.3 Nano and the poor, justice

5.4 Innovation, intellectual property

6 Conclusions and policy options

Acknowledgements

References

Abstract

The question of responsibility in the interaction between science, technology and society is one of the most pressing issues. This report starts by surveying the state of the art of the concept of responsibility in ethics and social studies of science literature. This is followed by a short overview of codes of conduct and other attempts at shaping responsible development of nanotechnology in a situation of uncertain risks. Subsequently, current trends in nanotechnology development in ten technology domains are reviewed, identified in technological and economic trend reports produced in the ObservatoryNano project. Apparent responsibility issues are highlighted. These issues are analysed with the following questions:

-         Who can be and who is held responsible for the nano-scientific and technological development? (Nanoscientists; Industrialists (large companies and SMEs); Government; Parliaments; Trade Unions; Consumer Associations; Environmental NGOs; Patient Associations; Churches; Media; General Public; Others)

-         How can each stakeholder group take its responsibility?