Nanotechnology

7 Nanotechnologies and Society in the USA

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Kirsty Mills

The social, legal and ethical implications of nanotechnology are not unique to any one country – but perhaps the way in which they are handled is unique. In the highly entrepreneurial environment of America, the precautionary approach figures less than it does in Europe – conceivably given the relative absence in America of episodes such as BSE (mad cow disease). A recent study (Gaskell et al, 2005) shows almost a mirror image in reactions to nanotechnology in Europe and in America, with 50 per cent of Americans versus 29 per cent of Europeans saying nanotechnology will improve our way of life, and 35 per cent of Americans versus 53 per cent of Europeans saying they do not ...