Nanofactories — molecular-scale machines that could eventually move atoms around to make products — could help solve world poverty but also wreak economic and social chaos.
Desktop nanofactories could pump out anything from a new car to a novel nanoweapon, says a technology commentator.
Mike Treder from the Center for Responsible Nanotechnology warns that society needs to start preparing for this brave new world.
Addressing a conference of scientists in Australia, he said that in less than 15 years nanoscale factories could be making consumer products from cups and chairs to cars and house bricks.
“It’s the biggest challenge we’ve ever faced as a species.”
via Australia ABC News in Science