Taking the Long View of Nanotechnology's Societal Implications: The National Iranian Nanotechnology Initiative at 10 Years

New technologies may create benefits, but can also sometimes introduce or exacerbate societal problems. There is broad consensus that adequate and targeted innovation is a key factor for achieving more sustainable development [1]. It is essential to understand that the meaning of "adequate" cannot be understood using only technical parameters. The real impact of emerging technologies is always a byproduct of both the technical parameters of technology and their social "embodiment," embodiment being the social environment of technology including its social consequences, application patterns, side effects, etc. Examination of the societal implications of technology should be developed further and conclusions formed in a way that positive consequences can be realized for sustainable development and negative effects prevented or minimized.