Tech Life Quantum computers are coming - do we need ethical guidelines?
Mar 3, 2026
Alastair Reynolds, sci‑fi author and former ESA scientist, reflects on how speculative stories shape space travel visions. Dr Natasha Orton, philosopher-physicist and author of the National Quantum Centre’s ethics plan, discusses why we must plan for quantum risks now. They talk quantum ethics, cryptography threats, access divides, and how sci‑fi influences real-world space ambitions.
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Act On Quantum Ethics Before Wide Deployment
- Quantum computing could reshape sectors like medicine, cryptography and energy before we fully understand its social impacts.
- Natasha Orton argues early ethical thinking can steer development toward societal good and avoid repeating mistakes from past tech revolutions.
Embed Ethical Training Early In Quantum R&D
- Start ethics work now so principles can be embedded while quantum is still being developed.
- Natasha Orton recommends training scientists and the future quantum workforce to think about ethics early to influence design and safeguards.
Cryptography Is A Foreseeable Quantum Risk
- Potential harms include unintended consequences like algorithmic bias and unequal access as quantum matures.
- Orton highlights cryptography risk as a specific existential concern because quantum could undermine current data protections.