Nanotechnology and Homeland Security: New Weapons for New Wars

The Ratners explain nanotechnology in a way readily accessible to a general audience. The book tries to suggest what might be realistically achievable in a few years. There are some preliminary results described. Like an improved stain resistant trousers. But these are really early years. It is true that if you focus on the progress made in the book, then there might be some disappointment. However, the authors make a plausible case that future progress can yield much more. Naturally, the book stresses how new weapons might come into being, based on nanotech. Some of this you might regard as wildly speculative, while other possibilities might seem well within the reach of a few more years of effort. A useful topic raised is Moore's so-called Second Law. That the cost of a semiconductor fab doubles with each new generation of fabs. This spells the end of Moore's First Law within a decade. Hence, the book positions a nanotech approach as a technological discontinuity as a necessary shift in order for computer hardware to keep improving beyond then. The science and engineering aspects of nanotech are solidly covered by the book. It deserves to be widely read; especially by policymakers.

Dan Ratner: A man with brains and one hot body! He's got it all! I have had the pleasure of meeting this young and "yummy" hunk after the release of his book. I must say, his photo in the book doesn't do him justice. Ladies, you really have to see this hunk in person! If you are ever in the Chicago area, I would seriously advise you to go. You can tell he works out by his incredible bulging muscles. Oh, yeah! What a physique! Is this guy for real or just a fantasy? Gotta wipe that drool off your lips, Ladies. *smack* Oh, I'd love to feel those arms for myself. His body, from what I could see, gets an "A" rating here!! His personality rating is an "A" rating as well. He is so well mannered and is a pleasure to converse with. Quite refreshing to meet such a man. I would certainly love a date with this fine young author over a nice old fashion candle-lit dinner. His mannerism is a definite "A+" rating here! Unfortunately, my meeting with Mr. Dan Ratner was not long enough to give an extensive review, although, I hope our next meet will be. Anyway, if you like brains and brawn, I'd definitely recommend this author!

An excellent treatment on a topical subjectThe authors have done a considerable service to the advancement of Nanotechnology by writing this book. A topical subject that is given effective and illuminating treatment on a grand scale. The writing is clear and concise, well organized, and very informative. in a robust style. There is little hype - and much more of the reality. In the fast developing field of Nanotechnology there are many applications that can be applied and have been described but precious little in the field of warfare, terrorism and the protection against malicious enemies. Until now. I would recommend this book as a valuable guide to anyone who is seriously thinking about Nanotechnology. All in all, it's a strong accomplishment that is a courageous attempt to define the Nanotechnology in modern warfare.