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. |
From inside the book
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Page 23
... RNA molecules . Picture a strand of RNA floating in a test tube together with copy- ing machines and RNA subunits . The strand tumbles and writhes until it bumps into a copying machine in the right position to stick . Subunits bump ...
... RNA molecules . Picture a strand of RNA floating in a test tube together with copy- ing machines and RNA subunits . The strand tumbles and writhes until it bumps into a copying machine in the right position to stick . Subunits bump ...
Page 24
... molecules replicate faster , and their kind dominates the mix . When resources run out , the experimenter can sample the RNA and start again ( and again , and again ) , holding conditions sta- ble . This experiment reveals a natural ...
... molecules replicate faster , and their kind dominates the mix . When resources run out , the experimenter can sample the RNA and start again ( and again , and again ) , holding conditions sta- ble . This experiment reveals a natural ...
Page 289
... RNA molecules into smaller pieces . RIBOSOME : A molecular machine , found in all cells , which builds protein molecules according to instructions read from RNA molecules . Ribo- somes are complex structures built of protein and RNA ...
... RNA molecules into smaller pieces . RIBOSOME : A molecular machine , found in all cells , which builds protein molecules according to instructions read from RNA molecules . Ribo- somes are complex structures built of protein and RNA ...
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