Public Understanding of Nanotechnology

Lucie Marisa Bucci, Research Associate
Centre de recherche en droit public at the Universite de Montreal

Nanotechnology has emerged at a time when there is much discussion about the role of the lay public in science policy. The main debate in this discourse is whether the lay public possesses a sufficient understanding of science to participate in the assessment of new technologies. With the emergence of nanotechnology, a science so intricate and multidisciplinary that the scientific community has difficulty agreeing on a single definition, the public¹s ability to grapple with the complexities of science comes under increased scrutiny.

At present, there is no doubt that very few people are familiar with nanotechnology. This is particularly disturbing because an increasing amount of public funds is being spent on nanotechnology research worldwide. For example, in 2003, the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act secured millions for nanotechnology research in the United States. Another prime example is the European Council's Seventh Framework, which also promises funds for nanotechnology research. This ground swell of public funding has not only forged a market for nanotechnology but has also raised the bar for global competition. Presently, nanotechnology is enabling exponential innovation in areas including genetics, medicine, cosmetics, computers, and telecommunications.

Nonetheless, past experience with genetically modified food in Europe instructs that the future of nanotechnology depends on public acceptance.1 Unfortunately, both nano pundits and nano critics have lost no time in using the media to incite public reaction to the potential promises and perils that may be brought to bear by nanotechnology-based products - even without definitive scientific research on toxicology.

At this juncture, the value of nanotechnology must not be reduced to either enthusiastic expectation or an alarmist approach. Rather, members of the public must be allowed and encouraged to form their own educated opinions on the emerging technology as informed by objective, accurate information.

To achieve this, national and international debate on nanotechnology are needed to bring citizens and experts together in open, public deliberation about nanotechnology and its potential impacts on society. Using such broad-based, inclusive, and transparent initiatives will not only positively influence public understanding of nanotechnology but will also enable governments, experts, and academic communities to develop a better understanding of what the public wants and expects in the oversight of nanotechnology.

Lucie Marisa Bucci is a Research Associate at the Centre de recherche en droit public at the Université de Montréal.