Emerging De Facto Agendas Surrounding Nanotechnology: Two Cases Full of Contingencies, Lock-outs, and Lock-ins

In a number of ways, the development of nanoscience and nanotechnologies is more reflexive than was the case for earlier new and emerging sciences and technologies. One indication is the common reference to the so-called impasse around (green) biotechnology, and how to avoid a similar impasse (For an example, see Colvin 2003; for an analysis in terms of folk theories, Rip 2006c). Related to this is the willingness to invite public engagement, if only as a precautionary measure. There is also reference to the importance of “responsible” development of nanoscience and nanotechnologies, e.g. in European Commission documents and in recent initiatives for voluntary codes. Clearly, there is now space for reflection and deliberation