Nanotechnology – Hype vs Promise
Researchers in the field of nanotechnology are enthusiastic about its potential applications in fields such as energy, medicine, electronics, computing, security and materials. This enthusiasm is based on laboratory discoveries, many of which are already being translated into highly advantageous products.
Others are more cautious about the potential of nanotechnology, noting that other technologies were over-promoted and, in fact, failed to do many of the things that proponents said they would. Some are concerned that attention to potential shortcomings to a new technology, such as nanotechnology, be addressed.
Because unintended impacts are important factors to evaluate for new technologies, the NNI is funding research into both environmental impacts and societal impacts of nanotechnology. See Societal Implications.