"In thinking about nanotechnology today, what's most important is understanding where it leads, what nanotechnology will look like after we reach the assembler breakthrough"

K. Eric Drexler, a pioneer in the concept of molecular nanotechnology, emphasizes the necessity of focusing not just on current advancements but on the trajectory of nanotechnology, particularly in relation to the anticipated "assembler breakthrough". The notion of assemblers refers to hypothetical nanoscale machines capable of positioning individual atoms or molecules to build complex structures with atomic precision. While present-day nanotechnology often involves manipulating materials and particles at small scales, it still falls short of the precision and control envisaged by the assembler concept.

Understanding where nanotechnology leads implies a forward-looking perspective, urging scientists, policymakers, and society at large to consider the broader implications of reaching a stage where molecular assemblers are feasible. The potential for assemblers to revolutionize manufacturing, medicine, and computation is vast. With such technology, it might be possible to fabricate almost any product inexpensively, efficiently, and with minimal waste, potentially transforming economies and industries. Life-saving medical interventions, such as targeted drug delivery or cellular repair, could become routine tasks for nanomachines. On the other hand, the same capabilities could pose significant risks, including unauthorised replication (the so-called "grey goo" scenario), weaponization, or severe economic disruption.

Drexler's statement calls for careful contemplation of not only the technological milestones ahead but also the societal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks that must evolve alongside these breakthroughs. The path to assemblers is fraught with challenges, including the development of enabling tools, the management of immense computational and chemical complexities, and the mitigation of potential hazards. By urging attention to where nanotechnology is headed, Drexler encourages thoughtful stewardship, anticipatory governance, and open dialogue about the promises and perils on the horizon, ensuring that when the assembler era arrives, humanity is prepared to guide its use toward constructive and responsible ends.