Drexler and Smalley on Nanotech

  • Thread starter Ontoplankton
  • Start date
In summary, Eric Drexler and Richard Smalley have debated the possibility of molecular nanotechnology in "Chemical & Engineering News". Drexler believes in the feasibility of molecular manufacturing, as outlined in the Foresight Institute's "Engines of Creation" and "Nanosystems". On the other hand, Smalley holds a more skeptical view and doubts its potential. The National Nanotechnology Initiative has been criticized for not prioritizing research into molecular manufacturing, despite its potential implications. Additional comments from Smalley can be found on the Foresight Institute's website.
  • #1
Ontoplankton
152
0
Recently, Eric Drexler and Richard Smalley debated the possibility of molecular nanotechnology in "Chemical & Engineering News":

http://pubs.acs.org/cen/coverstory/8148/8148counterpoint.html

Drexler thinks molecular manufacturing is possible (there's a lot of interesting speculation about the consequences in http://www.foresight.org/EOC/, and the science is made more rigorous in e.g. http://www.foresight.org/Nanosystems/); Smalley thinks it's impossible (or very limited in scope).

Is anyone here able to assess the truth of all these claims? I'm confused.

Or does anyone have opinions about the consequences for policy? It seems that based on Smalley's low opinion of the field, the National Nanotechnology Initiative is ignoring research into molecular manufacturing altogether. This doesn't seem wise to me, considering the potential consequences.
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
  • #2
Here's the comments at http://www.foresight.org/NanoRev/istherev.html [Broken]. I haven't found any further comments by Smalley; if you do, please post.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
The debate between Drexler and Smalley on the possibility of molecular nanotechnology. Both Drexler and Smalley are respected scientists in the field of nanotechnology, and their differing opinions on the topic have sparked a lively debate among researchers and policymakers.

Drexler believes that molecular manufacturing, which involves the precise control of individual atoms and molecules to create products, is possible and could revolutionize various industries. He has even written extensively about the potential consequences and benefits of this technology. On the other hand, Smalley argues that the current state of nanotechnology is not advanced enough to achieve molecular manufacturing and that it is a highly complex and challenging feat to accomplish.

While it is difficult to determine the truth of these claims, it is important to consider both perspectives when making policy decisions. The National Nanotechnology Initiative, which was established in 2000 to coordinate federal nanotechnology research and development, has largely focused on the development of nanoscale materials and devices rather than molecular manufacturing. This is likely due to Smalley's skepticism about the feasibility of molecular nanotechnology.

However, it is important to note that ignoring research into molecular manufacturing altogether may not be wise, as Drexler suggests. The potential consequences of this technology, if achievable, could have far-reaching impacts on various industries and society as a whole. Therefore, it is crucial for policymakers to carefully consider both perspectives and continue to support research in this field, while also ensuring responsible and ethical development of nanotechnology.
 

1. What is the significance of the debate between Drexler and Smalley on nanotechnology?

The debate between Drexler and Smalley centers around the feasibility and potential dangers of molecular nanotechnology. Drexler argues that it can lead to advanced technologies and materials, while Smalley argues that it is not possible with current scientific understanding.

2. Who is Drexler and what are his main arguments?

Eric Drexler is a researcher and author who popularized the concept of molecular nanotechnology. His main arguments include the potential for advanced technologies and materials, the ability to manipulate individual atoms and molecules, and the potential for self-replicating nanobots.

3. What are Smalley's objections to Drexler's ideas?

Richard Smalley, a Nobel laureate in chemistry, argues that Drexler's molecular nanotechnology is not possible with current scientific understanding. He highlights the challenges of manipulating individual atoms and molecules, and the potential dangers of self-replicating nanobots.

4. What is the current state of nanotechnology research?

Nanotechnology research is a rapidly growing field with numerous applications in various industries. While some aspects of Drexler's molecular nanotechnology may not be feasible yet, scientists have made significant progress in manipulating and controlling nanoscale materials and structures.

5. What are the potential risks and benefits of nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize various industries, such as medicine, energy, and electronics. However, there are also concerns about the potential risks, including environmental impact, ethical considerations, and the potential for misuse of advanced technologies.

Similar threads

Replies
25
Views
11K
  • General Discussion
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
293
Views
32K
  • MATLAB, Maple, Mathematica, LaTeX
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top