Physics of the Future, by Michio Kaku

Chapter Four

1.  Kaku begins this chapter on nanotechnology by discussing the quantum world.  He raises an interesting question, to which he responds:  “So why can’t we pass through solid objects like ghosts? The answer resides in a curious quantum phenomenon. The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two electrons can exist in the same quantum state. Hence when two nearly identical electrons get too close, they repel each other. This is the reason objects appear to be solid, which is an illusion.

The reality is that matter is basically empty. When we sit in a chair, we think we are touching it. Actually, we are hovering above the chair, floating less than a nanometer above it, repelled by the chair’s electrical and quantum forces. This means that whenever we “touch” something, we are not making direct contact at all but are separated by these tiny atomic forces.”

- How does this explanation shape our understanding of matter and our interaction with matter? 

2.  In the near term (present to 2030), nanomachines will infiltrate our bodies, capable of zapping cancer cells.  Nano cars (Honda?) will navigate our bloodstream, and DNA chips will constantly monitor our health and detect diseases. 

- How will such technology help save lives and costs?

3.  With Moore’s Law just around the corner, Kaku points toward a post-silicon era. 

- How might atomic transistors (e.g., graphene) and quantum computers at the atomic scale provide needed breakthroughs?

4. By midcentury (2030 to 2070), Kaku predicts that shape-shifting will be commonplace…allowing powerful computer programs to alter and re-shape material objects to fit changing needs and wants.

- What are potential pros and cons to such abilities?

5.  In the far future (2070 to 2100), Kaku states that “advocates of nanotechnology envision an even more powerful machine: a molecular assembler, or ‘replicator,’ capable of creating anything.” 

- What are some of the challenges to this technology?

- What might the social impact of replicators look like?

- What would we do with our time?

- Would society be happier or better off?

- How would society differentiate between material wealth and spiritual need?

- Would people continue to turn to God and pray?