Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
people in developing countries should benefit from nanotechnology is given
to some extent in Rawls' Theory of Justice and Sen's Idea of Justice.
Examining each of the above-mentioned principles for sustainable nano-
technology one by one, it becomes clear that they highlight different aspects
of the international innovation system that may stimulate or hamper equal
opportunities to benefit from nanotechnology.
1.
Public engagement:
The question of who should be engaged in setting
priorities in nanotechnology development features on the interna-
tional political agenda. Views on the matter range from the tradi-
tional triple helix of science, industry, and policy making to direct
democracy involving all citizens. Nussbaum states, “a plurality of
actors should be held responsible” without specifying which kinds
of actors or what they should be held responsible for. This criterion
can be used to analyze which actors are engaged in some form in
the debate or decision making on priorities in nanotechnology in
international cooperation and individual countries, what role each
group plays, and what the connections between the different actors
are. This allows for factual comparison rather than moral evaluation
of good or bad practices.
Sen's concept of democracy as deliberative governance implies
that more rather than less relevant stakeholders and even impartial
observers should be heard to enable more just decision making.
2.
National sovereignty:
In international cooperation in (nano) ST&I,
respect for national sovereignty implies that foreign investors or
cooperation partners refrain from undermining national policies.
Again this appears to be more a pragmatic guideline to avoid wast-
ing resources than a moral rule. As the case studies of nanotech-
nology in Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico below will demonstrate,
without a deliberate policy of the national government, the chances
that investment in nanotechnology research in or for the country
will eventually benefit the national socioeconomic development can
be considered low.
3.
Foreign and private investment:
The demand that governments of
rich countries and multinational companies invest in building up
a knowledge economy in developing countries can be considered a
genuinely moral rule. More than vague declarations of good inten-
tions, it implies transferring hard cash and other resources from
serving a country or company's self-interests to supporting the devel-
opment of countries that lack the resources to develop themselves.
From the case studies of Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, it appears
that the European Commission and national governments of other
countries are making available resources for nanoscience and nano-
technology in these countries. On the other hand, investment by
