Engines of CreationIn this original book about the consequences of new technologies, Drexler takes the reader through exhilarating new discoveries and the promise of those around the corner. Beginning with the insight that what we can do depends on what we can build, Drexler analyzes nanotechnology, which involves the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules. He makes a plausible case for expecting technological developments in artificial intelligence and molecular engineering that will result in tiny mechanisms being controlled by microscopic powerful thinking computers. He also explains how the new alternatives could be directed toward vital human concerns -- wealth or poverty, health or sickness, peace or war. ISBN 0-385-19972-4: $17.95. |
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Page v
... predict the details of future technologies for more than perhaps half a century ahead . For one thing , it is virtually impossible to predict in detail which alternatives will become technically feasible over any longer interval of time ...
... predict the details of future technologies for more than perhaps half a century ahead . For one thing , it is virtually impossible to predict in detail which alternatives will become technically feasible over any longer interval of time ...
Page 10
... predict how a long , natural protein chain will actually fold , and some of them have despaired of designing protein molecules soon . Yet most biochemists work as scientists , not as engineers . They work at predicting how natural ...
... predict how a long , natural protein chain will actually fold , and some of them have despaired of designing protein molecules soon . Yet most biochemists work as scientists , not as engineers . They work at predicting how natural ...
Page 40
... predict when a technology will be developed , because development always involves uncertain- ties . But we have to try to predict and guide development . Will we develop monster technologies before cage technologies , or after ? Some ...
... predict when a technology will be developed , because development always involves uncertain- ties . But we have to try to predict and guide development . Will we develop monster technologies before cage technologies , or after ? Some ...
Contents
Engines of Construction | 3 |
The Principles of Change | 21 |
Predicting and Projecting | 39 |
Copyright | |
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ability able active already arms assemblers atoms basic become better biostasis brain bring build called cell repair machines Chapter chemical complex computers consider copies cost damage dangerous described develop devices direct discussion Earth effect electronic energy engineering evolution evolved example exist fact force future genes give groups grow growth holds human hypertext ideas imagine institutions intelligence knowledge lead less light limits living machinery material matter means mechanical memes million mind molecular molecular machines molecules move natural organisms patterns possible present principles problem produce protect protein quantum mechanics reach reason remain replicators require seems selection shape simple solar space speed spread structures success suggest technical things thousand tion tissue understand universe