Nanotechnology and Nature: On Two Criteria for Understanding Their Relationship

Hyle 11 (1):77 - 96 (2005)
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Abstract

Two criteria are proposed for characterizing the diverse and not yet perspicuous relations between nanotechnology and nature. They assume a concept of nature as that which is not made by human action. One of the criteria endorses a distinction between natural and artificial objects in nanotechnology; the other allows for a discussion of the potential nanotechnological modification of nature. Insofar as current trends may be taken as indicative of future development, nanotechnology might increasingly use the model of nature as a point of orientation, while many of its products will continue to be clearly distinguished from nature.

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Gregor Schiemann
University of Wuppertal

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