http://e360.yale.edu.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/content/feature.msp?id=2029
Nanotechnology covers a branch of science in which atomic manipulation is made possible through the use of microscopic robots, electronics and materials. The applications of atomic manipulation are almost endless, some including: recycling of materials andpurification or clean up of pollution. With such a wide range of possibilities the future of nanoscience seems quite promising. Many businesses and governments are heavily investing in an effort to advance this technology. But with the rapid and unchecked development of nanotechnology many are questioning if we are getting ahead of ourselves.
In Nanotech: The unknown risks, Carole Bass cautions the safety of this rapidly expanding technology. She uses the precautionary principle to effectively construct an argument for regulation due to our lack of knowledge surrounding this technology. This topic is an appropriate application for the precautionary principle because this technology is being integrated into many consumer products and a large proportion of the population is being exposed with relatively limited knowledge of the effects and behaviour of nanoparticles. In the article she explains that while the applications for this technology are promising, not enough effort or attention is being paid to studying the risks of the technology. A number of recent studies have made potential links between nanoparticles and serious health problems in humans and certain organisms. The studies indicate that while nanoparticles are made of familiar elements like carbon and silver, on the atomic level these elements could behave quite differently and be dangerous(Bass 2009). Another problem is that nanoparticles are so small, that exposure to these substances through consumer products is virtually unavoidable. In this context the precautionary principle is appropriate and should be applied for risk assessment and policy, due to the sheer lack of knowledge of the risks to human health and the environment.
References
Bass Carole. (2008, 23 June 2008). Nanotech: The unknown risks. Message posted to http://e360.yale.edu.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/content/feature.msp?id=2029
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I like the introduction to your post it summarizes the topic nicely. However I think you could of been more conclusive in your analysis of the precautionary principle. There wasn't really a definitive application, for example, precautionary principle could b used in such and such a way to this end.
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