Ethical Standpoints in Relation to New Technologies (Neo-Technologies): Classification Plan, Miscommunication, and Perspectives

Abstract

The moral debate on convergent technologies, or neo-technologies, get a critical place both in the scientific literature and the public debate. Each one goes there from his own positions, by refuting those of the others. The conflict opposes supporters of different ethical positions, and it is difficult to navigate this debate on the usefulness, acceptability, or tolerance for the development of converging technologies. These NBIC technologies are judged according to moral “compartments” which involve both the hopes of humanity and fears which are the source of much resistance. These positions are in reference to moral bases developed and promoted by experts, users, or citizens confronted with the exponential development of these NBIC technologies.

Moral positions can be described in four trends: rejection, regulation, letting it happen, or encouraging the development. They are themselves modulated by the ethical value that these experts, users, or citizens attach to the real or fantasized issues of the fields of application: health, nature and environment, nurture and civilization, economic development.