As networks continue to grow and interconnect, scientists believe that at some point in the near future the entire global network will exhibit 'emergent behavior' and become 'alive'.

An article from Business Week's forward looking preview of the technology driven 21st century economy. This article focuses on Rouke's advances in creating 'microelectromechanical systems' but also dwells on the potential application of nanotech including using it for biological arms control verification.