Exploring a Timeless Landscape: What can physics tell us about the potential scope of physical technology?

Eric Drexler (Chief Technical Advisor to Nanorex)

Abstract.  An engineering-based methodology can answer a limited but illuminating range of questions about the potential of physical technology. This line of inquiry leads to a more specific question: What can physics tell us about the potential scope of atomically precise fabrication technologies? Today’s knowledge shows that this scope embraces productive nanotechnologies that can transform the material basis of civilization.