Nanotechnology and the Challenges of Equity, Equality and Development

With a focus on how nanotechnologies might affect equity/equality in global society, this book covers key societal issues in emerging technology. It includes advice for avoiding negative social consequences, and covers nanotechnology in emerging economies.

Nanotechnology is enabling applications in materials, microelectronics, health, and agriculture, which are projected to create the next big shift in production, comparable to the industrial revolution. Such major shifts always co-evolve with social relationships. This book focuses on how nanotechnologies might affect equity/equality in global society. Nanotechnologies are likely to open gaps by gender, ethnicity, race, and ability status, as well as between developed and developing countries, unless steps are taken now to create a different outcome. Organizations need to change their practices, and cultural ideas must be broadened if currently disadvantaged groups are to have a more equal position in nano-society rather than a more disadvantaged one. Economic structures are likely to shift in the nano-revolution, requiring policymakers and participatory processes to invent new institutions for social welfare, better suited to the new economic order than those of the past.

Societal key issues in emerging technology 2. Includes practical advice for avoiding negative social consequences 3. Perspectives on gender, race/ethnicity, and ability status 4. Nanotechnology in emerging economies. International and multidisciplinary contributions

Inhalt
Part I: Dimensions of Nano Fairness Part II: Uneven Structures Part III: Equalizing Processes Part IV: Nanotechnology and the World System Part V: Lessons for action Index