[tt] Lin et al on regulating nano (or not)

[Hughes, James J.]

The following paper is published in the Springer journal NanoEthics:
Ethics for Technologies that Converge at the Nanoscale, August 2007,
Number 2: 105-122. DOI: 10.1007/s11569-007-0012-9

http://www.nanoethics.org/paper_nanoreg.html

Nanotechnology Bound: Evaluating the Case for More Regulation

By Patrick Lin

Abstract

In continuing news, there is a growing debate on whether current laws
and regulations, both in the US and abroad, need to be strengthened as
they relate to nanotechnology.  On one side, experts argue that
nanomaterials, which are making their way into the marketplace today,
are possibly harmful to consumers and the environment, so stronger and
new laws are needed to ensure they are safe.  On the other side,
different experts argue that more regulation will slow down the pace of
business and innovation in nanotechnology, or that self-regulation is
the answer, or other opposing positions.  This paper will draw out the
core issues behind the debate and explain that there is more at stake
than merely environmental, health and safety (EHS) worries or business
interests, as it first appears.  We will also suggest an alternative
solution to stricter laws, since stricter laws would face formidable
practical challenges, even if they are warranted.