Foresight Institute's goal is to guide emerging technologies to improve
the human condition. Foresight focuses its efforts upon nanotechnology and
upon systems that will enhance knowledge exchange and critical discussion,
thus improving public and private policy decisions.
Policy
Foresight Institute recognizes that nanotechnology - like all pivotal technologies
- brings both potential perils and benefits. To help achieve the advantages
and avoid the dangers, Foresight's policy is to prepare for nanotechnology
by:
promoting understanding of nanotechnology and its effects;
informing the public and decision makers;
developing an organizational base for addressing nanotechnology-related
issues and- communicating openly about them; and,
actively pursuing beneficial outcomes of nanotechnology, including
improved economic, social and environmental conditions.
Perspective
Foresight Institute recognizes that sound public and private policy can
be built only upon a solid foundation of knowledge and tested ideas. Humanity
needs better methods to exchange knowledge, and to subject new ideas to
effective intellectual scrutiny. Foresight thus supports the development
of new systems and technologies that will lead to better dissemination of
information and analysis of proposed policies. This is crucial in addressing
emerging technologies. When nanotechnology is realized, it will trigger
widespread social and economic change, for which public and private policy
must now prepare.
Nanotechnology will allow control of the structure of matter within the
broad limits set by physical laws. Other limits will be necessary to prevent
abuses by individuals, groups and nations bent upon undesirable ends. Global
competitive forces and continuing progress in molecular sciences will lead
ultimately to the realization of nanotechnology. Foresight seeks to ensure
that nanotechnology, when developed, will be used to improve conditions
in the broadest sense, rather than for destructive or narrow purposes. Nanotechnology
must be developed openly to serve the general welfare and the continued
realization of the human potential.
Earlier Statements of Foresight policy from 1991
and 1992
For ongoing nanotechnology
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