In discussions regarding the ethical obligations of nanotechnology researchers, one frequently encounters the phrase “responsible development.” But what exactly does responsible development mean? The phrase can refer to conduct that follows ethical rules such as avoiding conflicts of interests and treating research subjects with respect. Alternatively, the phrase may describe a duty among scientists to assess and account for a technology’s positive and negative effects, especially its health, safety, and environmental consequences. A third, broader notion of responsible development incorporates public engagement into research and calls on scientists not only to reflect expansively on the ramifications of their work but also to rethink their work in light of public viewpoints and concerns. These multiple understandings of responsible development are appealing in the abstract, but the last in particular raises challenges to implement in practical and concrete ways.

What is responsible development of nanotechnology?

249th National Meeting (2015)

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