Imagine a technology that will give us pretty much the same control over physical objects that computers have given us over data. Imagine being able to produce anything you want or need — electronic gadgets, clothing, cars, a house, food — with little more effort than it currently takes to print out a page or burn a CD.
In his new book Radical Abundance, nanotechnology pioneer K. Eric Drexler argues that such technology is completely possible, that it is an all-but inevitable extension of the technologies we have in place today, and that it will be with us very soon.
Phil and Stephen discuss Drexler’s new book, which outlines how atomically precise manufacturing will utterly transform our world. Skeptics say that Drexler’s vision of atomically precise manufacturing is a pipe dream that has been ridiculously hyped for too long. Drexler maintains that we are much closer than most people realize, and that progress is taking place in some unexpected quarters. Who is right? And if APM is on its way, will it be the ultimate example of catastrophic success or will it lead to an economic boom of unprecedented proportions?
Tune in and explore:
