Nanotechnology's Controversial Role for the South

Abstract

The possibility that nanotechnology will turn into an instrument to aid development or alleviate poverty has been discussed explicitly in academic circles, at meetings held by international bodies, and in non-governmental organisations since 1997. The different positions on the role that it can play in the process reflect particular interpretations of the relationship between science, technology and society. We divide the arguments expressed in this discussion in two broad groups. One can be identified as the instrumental position, which emphasises the technical capacity of nanotechnologies to solve poverty problems and spur development. The other group of arguments can be identified as the contextual position by emphasising the social context wherein technology is produced, used and adapted. We summarise and analyse the main arguments in the debate on nanotechnologies, development and poverty. We consider the most influent opinions from organisations, institutions and meetings, presenting their main ideas in chronological order. The outline covers the period from 1997 to late 2007, and reviews the documents that most directly address the issue. Afterwards, we highlight and analyse the main issues at stake in this controversy.

Developments in the Debate on Nanoethics: Traditional Approaches and the Need for New Kinds of Analysis

“…They have produced a number of dedicated studies on the problems of monopolies which result from patenting, in particular in the nanobiological sector [47], and on the possible implications of such practices for the global South ( [48], cf. [83]). Even if this potential for negative impacts-such as this question of patents-is not something that arises for the first time with nanotechnologies, it may be amplified and assume different characteristics precisely due to their ubiquitous and enabling character.…”

Nanotechnology, Development and Buddhist Values

“…So far there have been only a few studies of nanotechnology and its possible impacts on the developing countries, and among these few there are divergent viewpoints as to how nanotechnology could and should be adopted by the developing countries [25]. Apart from Singer et al, Salamanca-Buentello et al [33] and Foladori and Invernizzi [11] also paint a rather optimistic picture.…”

Nanomaterial Governance, Planetary Health, and the Sustainocene Transition

“…Yet, many commentators remain skeptical that nanotechnology according to current patterns of research and development will assist economic development, improve global public health, and reduce poverty (Invernizzi et al, 2008;Missoni and Foffani, 2009). The hypothesis being explored here is that regulatory complexity and uncertainty is a factor in inhibiting this reorientation of nanotechnology research and development priorities.…”