Nano-Hype: The Truth Behind the Nanotechnology Buzz [Hardcover]

David M. Berube (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 2005

Nanotechnology, the science of molecular engineering at the atomic scale, has captured the popular imagination. From movies to TV series to video games, utopian fantasies and horror scenarios involving nanotechnology have become a staple of the entertainment industry. The hyperbole surrounding this new technology comes not only from the media but also from scientists who exaggerate the anticipated benefits of nanotechnology to justify research funding, as well as from environmentalists and globalisation opponents, who sometimes indulge in doom-and-gloom prophecies to advance their own agendas. The result is widespread misinformation and an uninformed public. In an effort to set the record straight, professor of communication studies David M. Berube has written this thoroughly researched, accessible overview of nanotechnology in contemporary culture. He evaluates the claims and counterclaims about nanotechnology by a broad range of interested parties including government officials and bureaucrats, industry leaders and entrepreneurs, scientists, journalists, and other persons in the media. Berube appraises programs and grand initiatives here and abroad, and he examines the environmental concerns raised by opponents, as well as the government and private responses to these concerns. With so much argumentation on both sides, it is difficult for anyone to determine what is true. "Nano-Hype" provides up-to-date, objective information to inform the public. Based on over a decade of research and interviews with many of the movers and shakers in nanotechnology, this critical study will help the reader separate the realistic prospects from the hype surrounding this important cutting-edge technology.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

David M. Berube (Columbia, SC) is professor of communication studies at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and the associate director of Nanoscience and Technology Studies at the USC NanoCenter.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 521 pages
• Publisher: Prometheus Books (December 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1591023513
• ISBN-13: 978-1591023517
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,036,758 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Wealth of Information, May 25, 2006

By 

C. Dickson - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Nano-Hype: The Truth Behind the Nanotechnology Buzz (Hardcover)

This is undoubtedly one of the most comprehensive reviews of nanotechnology available today. Dr. Berube is probably one of the most informed professors regarding nanotechnology in the world today, and it is certainly apparent in his book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the field, from beginners just starting to understand the technology to those wishing to refine their existing knowledge base.