Small, but Determined: Technological Determinism in Nanoscience

Abstract

Analysis of technological determinism by historians, sociologists, and philosophers has declined in recent years. Yet, understanding this topic is necessary, particularly in examining the dynamics of emerging technologies and their associated research areas. This is especially true of nanotechnology, which, because of its roots in futurist traditions, employs unusual variants on classical determinist arguments. In particular, nanotechnology orients much more strongly to the past and future than most traditional disciplines. This non-presentism strongly colors its proponents' articulation of the field's defi- nition, purview, and likely development. This paper explores nano's non- presentism and suggests ways to further explore nano-determinism.