Chapter 2. Visions and Illusions

Science fiction writers and nanotech propagandists have spread false rumors about the probable impact of nanotechnology, such as the notion that self-reproducing nanobots could soon either achieve cost-free manufacturing or threaten all life on Earth. In truth, as other chapters of this book show, the real potential of nanotechnology is nearly as remarkable and lies chiefly in its implications for other technologies. This chapter examines both the visionaries and their visions. Nanotechnology offers many realistic investment opportunities, plus perhaps a few dangers, but finding them is made more difficult by the unrealistic nanohype currently being spread by fiction writers and undisciplined visionaries. Of course, ...

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