The next Industrial
Revolution is right around the
corner. Fourth generation
nanotechnology — molecular
manufacturing — will radically transform the world, and the people, of the early
21st century. Whether that transformation will be peaceful and beneficial or
horrendously destructive is unknown. Although nanotechnology carries great
promise, unwise or malicious use could seriously threaten the survival of the
human race. The vision of CRN is a world in which molecular
manufacturing is widely used for
productive and beneficial purposes, and where dangerous uses are limited.
The mission of CRN
is to: 1) raise awareness of the benefits, the
dangers, and the possibilities for responsible use of
advanced nanotechnology; 2) expedite a thorough examination
of the environmental, humanitarian, economic, military, political, social,
medical, and ethical implications of molecular manufacturing; and 3) assist in
the creation and implementation of wise, comprehensive, and balanced plans for
responsible worldwide use of this transformative technology.
The purpose of CRN
is not to predict, but to prepare; not to determine exactly when
and how nanotechnology will enable disruptive molecular
manufacturing, but to stimulate effective preparation for it, whenever and
however it comes.
