Introduction

Abstract

Precisely what counts as ‘nanotechnology’ eludes easy explanation. This may seem somewhat surprising to say, given the rapidly growing number of references to it in different media contexts. Looking across a range of these contexts — such as advertisements for exciting new nano-products, certain (often dystopian) visions in science-fiction cinema, novels and comic books, or even more nuanced representations in the science pages of a newspaper — is likely to reveal a number of competing definitions. At stake, it seems, is more than the usual sorts of disagreements over terminology and classifications among scientists. That is to say, it would appear that what counts as nanotechnology is also a problem of communication — and therefore, quite possibly, one of risk where public perceptions are concerned.

Nanotechnology is set to disrupt the face of much of industry. Nanotechnology is about new ways of making things. It promises more for less: smaller, cheaper, lighter and faster devices with greater functionality, using less raw material and consuming less energy. Any industry that fails to investigate the potential of nanotechnology, and to put in place its own strategy for dealing with it, is putting its business at risk.

(DTI/OST, 2002, 6)