Towards the Sixth Kondratieff Cycle of Nano Revolution

Abstract

Nanotechnology is currently seen as a paradigm shift towards scientific revolution or ‘nano revolution. This article discusses the nano revolution within the global context. It is interesting to see that the governments around the world have formulated policies to manage the research and development (R&D) efforts and exploit the potential of nanotechnology to increase industry's ability in the global economy. The article analyses the successive waves of technological change based on Kuhn's model of scientific change and Schumpeter's model of Kondratieff cycles. As nanotechnology would have significant impacts on virtually every commercial sector, many countries commit to foster nanotechnology developments. This article will focus on nanotechnology framework policy recommendations. The policies and research activities of the most preeminent nations discussed in this article represent global research trend towards nano revolution in the next decades.