Home > News > Humans and Violence
June 30th, 2007
Humans and Violence
Abstract:
Harvard psychology professor Steven Pinker asserts that: "Violence has been in decline over long stretches of history, and today we are probably living in the most peaceful moment of our species' time on earth."
This is a highly promising analysis, and Pinker marshals impressive evidence to make his case. Today I'll examine a few points from his essay in more detail, and then consider the conjunction of these trends with the projected impacts of advanced nanotechnology.
This is where the widespread deployment of desktop manufacturing becomes a worry. Unless effective restrictions are in place to prevent dangerous weaponry from proliferating throughout populations, then we may be faced with a true "democratization of violence." The removal of the state's monopoly on force conceivably could plunge civilization into anarchy.
Source:
ieet.org
Bookmark:
Interviews/Book Reviews/Essays/Reports/Podcasts/Journals
International survey supports need for built-in water protection on smartphones and tablets May 21st, 2013
Rice unveils method for tailoring optical processors: Arranging nanoparticles in geometric patterns allows for control of light with light May 21st, 2013
Protein 'Passport' Helps Nanoparticles Get Past Immune System May 20th, 2013
Nanoparticle Harnesses Powerful Radiation Therapy for Cancer May 20th, 2013
Homeland Security
Flawed Diamonds Promise Sensory Perfection: Berkeley Lab researchers and their colleagues extend electron spin in diamond for incredibly tiny magnetic detectors May 10th, 2013
Secret of the Crystal's Corners: New Nanowire Structure Has Potential to Increase Semiconductor Applications: University of Cincinnati research describes discovery of a new structure that is a fundamental game changer in the physics of semiconductor nanowires April 23rd, 2013
Notre Dame study explores the potential benefits and threats of nanotechnology research January 25th, 2013
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Awarded $6.5 Million Grant to Develop Nano Thin Infrared Night Vision Glasses November 30th, 2012
Human Interest/Art
Oh, Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree: A nano end for Christmas tree needles January 2nd, 2013
INIC Inks MoU to Apply Nanotechnology in Iran's Carpet Industry December 18th, 2012
IBN Welcomes Its First 9-Year-Old ‘Scientist’: IBN and Make-A-Wish Foundation Singapore Make Kidney Patient’s Dream Come True December 10th, 2012
The music of the silks: Researchers synthesize a new kind of silk fiber — and find that music can help fine-tune the material’s properties November 28th, 2012