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Mission

The Future of Humanity Institute is the leading research centre looking at big-picture questions for human civilization. The last few centuries have seen tremendous change, and this century might transform the human condition in even more fundamental ways.  Using the tools of mathematics, philosophy, and science, we explore the risks and opportunities that will arise from technological change, weigh ethical dilemmas, and evaluate global priorities.  Our goal is to clarify the choices that will shape humanity’s long-term future. 

Oxford Martin Programme on the Impacts of Future Technology Inaugural Lecture

The Oxford Martin Programme on the Impacts of Future Technology is pleased to announce its Inaugural Lecture, titled “Exploring a Timeless Landscape: Physical law and the future of nanotechnology”, to be given by pioneering nanotechnology researcher Dr K Eric Drexler. It will be held on the 10th of November, 2011 in the East Writing School Room of the Examination Schools, The High, Oxford. The event begins at 5:30pm with the lecture beginning at 6pm sharp. Eric Drexler, author of the influential “Engines of Creation” and “Nanotechnology: Molecular Machinery, Manufacturing & Computation” is sometimes described as “The Father of Nanotechnology”. Dr Drexler’s lecture will be preceded by a brief introduction to the Programme on the Impacts of Future Technology and its aims by Programme Director Professor Nick Bostrom.

Speaker: Dr K Eric Drexler, Academic Visitor to the Oxford Martin Programme on the Impacts of Future Technology

Title: "Exploring a Timeless Landscape: Physical law and the future of nanotechnology"

Abstract: A methodology grounded in physics and engineering can answer a limited yet illuminating range of questions about the potential of physical technology. This line of inquiry leads to a crucial question: What can physics tell us about the potential of advanced nanotechnologies? Well-established physical principles show that this potential embraces productive nanotechnologies that have the potential to transform the material basis of civilization. This prospect calls for re-evaluating both research opportunities and broader choices with consequences for the human future.”

Time and date: 10 November 2011, 5:30pm

Venue: Examination Schools, The High, Oxford (map and directions)

Registration: All are welcome to attend this free event, but registration is required.  To reserve a place, please email sean.oheigeartaigh@philosophy.ox.ac.uk

The Oxford Martin Programme on the Impacts of Future Technology is a new interdisciplinary horizontal Programme within the Oxford Martin School in collaboration with theFaculty of Philosophy at Oxford University. It explores possibilities in long-range technological change, including topics such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and existential risks, and the potential these developments have to reshape society and the world as we know it.  More details on our website....