Foresight Institute Purpose and Policy
Foresight Institute's goal is to guide emerging technologies
to improve the human condition. Foresight focuses its efforts
upon nanotechnology and upon systems that will enhance knowledge
exchange and critical discussion, thus improving public and
private policy decisions.
Foresight Institute recognizes that nanotechnology - like all
pivotal technologies - brings both potential perils and benefits.
To help achieve the advantages and avoid the dangers, Foresight's
policy is to prepare for nanotechnology by:
- promoting understanding of nanotechnology and its
effects;
- informing the public and decision makers;
- developing an organizational base for addressing
nanotechnology-related issues and- communicating openly
about them; and,
- actively pursuing beneficial outcomes of nanotechnology,
including improved economic, social and environmental
conditions.
Foresight Institute recognizes that sound public and private
policy can be built only upon a solid foundation of knowledge and
tested ideas. Humanity needs better methods to exchange
knowledge, and to subject new ideas to effective intellectual
scrutiny. Foresight thus supports the development of new systems
and technologies that will lead to better dissemination of
information and analysis of proposed policies. This is crucial in
addressing emerging technologies. When nanotechnology is
realized, it will trigger widespread social and economic change,
for which public and private policy must now prepare.
Nanotechnology will allow control of the structure of matter
within the broad limits set by physical laws. Other limits will
be necessary to prevent abuses by individuals, groups and nations
bent upon undesirable ends. Global competitive forces and
continuing progress in molecular sciences will lead ultimately to
the realization of nanotechnology. Foresight seeks to ensure that
nanotechnology, when developed, will be used to improve
conditions in the broadest sense, rather than for destructive or
narrow purposes. Nanotechnology must be developed openly to serve
the general welfare and the continued realization of the human
potential.
Learn about Earlier Statements of Foresight policy from 1991 and 1992
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