If you haven’t heard of Charles Stross, I highly recommend you go out and pick up one of his novels, namely Accelerando. Charlie is an avid geek and science fiction writer, and all around interesting fellow to listen to. Charles did this particular Q & A after doing a reading at Apple, and he discusses some fascinating topics, such as the use of malware to damage uranium enrichment hardware, his predictions on the future of bitcoins, and his feelings towards 3d printers and how a person could use them to create illegal goods.
Q&A With Charles Stross
My favorite part of the talk is the discussion on 3d printers, and how they could be used to create unregulated firearms once the technology matures a bit. According to Charles, industrial grade 3d printers are already able to print using steel and titanium – a fact I wasn’t aware of. Last I heard printers could only print using a sort of solid nylon material, but if they’re actually capable of printing in steel and titanium, well, the options are limitless.
The Q&A is spread out over 3 videos and lasts about 30 minutes in total. You’ll find parts two and three here.