Ethical issues in microrobotics

Ethics in micro/nano-technology, like in any other field, plays a crucial role in guiding the responsible development, deployment, and use of microrobotics. While microrobots offer tremendous potential for various applications, ethical considerations must be addressed to ensure responsible and beneficial use.

First, as microtechnology can be integrated into various applications, safety considerations are very important. It is essential to ensure that microdevices are designed, manufactured, and deployed in a manner that minimizes risks to users and the broader environment. Adequate testing, quality control, and safety standards are necessary to prevent harm or unintended consequences. However, even though the researcher must have all of this in mind from the beginning of the design of the microrobotics system, all of these safety issues only arise during clinical validation which should enable proof of safety

Microtechnologies hold the potential to enhance human capabilities and performance. However, ethical concerns arise regarding the boundaries and implications of such enhancements. Discussions surrounding the responsible use of microtechnologies in areas like cognitive enhancement, augmentation, and performance enhancement are necessary to navigate potential societal, economic, and ethical impacts. But to date, scientific research in the field of microrobotics is far from bringing such high level of improvements. The only close improvement is the targeted delivery in the body of a living animal [1]–[4].

These are just a few examples of the ethical considerations in microrobotics. As microtechnologies continue to evolve, it is crucial for researchers, policymakers, and society as a whole to engage in ongoing discussions to address these ethical challenges and shape the development of microrobotics in a responsible and beneficial manner.