X-Message-Number: 12160
From: Thomas Donaldson <>
Subject: nanotechnology "in general" will not help us
Date: Tue, 20 Jul 1999 14:52:08 +1000 (EST)

Hi everyone!

While I am happy that various researchers have begun to really make
nanosized machines, the problem of reviving cryonics patients continues.
Even more than that, the machines as described are at best steps toward
that revival, they can hardly do the job by themselves. 

I have said before that the problem of revival, by whatever means, is
OURS. This does not mean that with nanomachines and nanotechnology it will
become, for US, a simple matter of reprogramming a standard nanomachine
and using it in great numbers for revival. We may very well have to design
and construct the machines ourselves... the required features will not
automatically appear. 

I also note that these machines do not seem to be all-purpose. Given the
behavior of different materials in different chemical and physical
environments, I strongly doubt the possibility of "all-purpose" nanomachines.

The problem of revival will remain in our laps. We may become much more
numerous, yes, and that will certainly help. But ultimately the finger 
points at US.

			Best and long long life for all,

				Thomas Donaldson

PS: Yes, I also have opinions about the likely structure of such repair
devices, but that is a secondary issue. I would be happy to be revived 
even if those opinions turn out to be wrong.

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