The author warns that excessive precaution could strangle nanotechnology at birth, arguing that "it is doubly absurd to be anticipating catastrophe, especially when based on implausible claims about machines that nobody can make doing things that defy the rules governing the physical world."
Martin Rees argues in a new book that coming technological catastrophes could doom billions and to prevent them, society may need to consider restricting specific types of scientific research. He specifically cites dangers from nanotechnology and supercolliders.
The authors propose using a modified version of the precautionary principle to address potential risks from nanotechnology development.
The authors argue that the human germline is part of the "global commons" and should be internationally protected by using the precautionary principle to restrain research.
George J. Annas makes a moral and scientific case against human cloning and advocates for international adoption of the "precautionary principle" for all cloning research.