Optical camouflage was once the stuff of science fiction, but modern technological advances are making it a reality. This technology can raise ethical issues, especially because of its potential military applications, and we need to think about its responsible use in the context of the value-neutrality debate in science and technology.

Introduction

Optical camouflage has long been a concept that exists only in the human imagination. Science fiction themes such as ‘invisibility’ have been explored in various cultures, from ancient mythology to modern times. However, in the 21st century, advances in advanced technologies such as nanotechnology and metamaterials have made it no longer an impossible fantasy. With technology advancing at a blistering pace, we are now living in an era where the technologies of our imagination are becoming a reality.

Optical camouflage in sci-fi

The film Ghost In The Shell (1995) takes place in a slightly distant future, when computers were just becoming commonplace in every home. In the film, most people are cyborgs, and artificial intelligence has reached a point where it is almost equal to the human soul. By combining the human soul with a programme on the net called a ‘puppeteer’, artificial intelligence can even reach the point where it can be called life.
One of the important technologies in the film is optical camouflage. The protagonist, Major Kusanagi, makes himself invisible in battle to overpower his enemies, a concept that has been used in science fiction for a long time, but which is now being recreated through modern science and technology. Optical camouflage is not just fiction, as it would be a paradigm shift in the world of optics if it were to become a reality.

The scientific background of optical camouflage

Optical camouflage was once only possible in the imagination, but now, thanks to the work of Professor Susumu Tachi at the University of Tokyo in Japan, the possibility has been opened up. His proposed technique is based on the concept of retroreflection. Simply put, it involves covering the surface of the coat with microscopic glass beads that reflect light to create transparency. Other researchers are looking at using advanced metamaterials to divert the path of light. If these technologies are realised, optical camouflage could become a reality and no longer a fanciful concept.

Value-neutrality of science and technology

This is where we need to discuss the difference between science and technology. Science is purely about explaining natural phenomena, while technology is about applying them to serve a purpose. In this sense, science can be value-neutral, but technology is not. Technologies, such as optical camouflage, are developed based on scientific research, but their purpose can vary depending on their application.

Optical camouflage as a military technology

What about optical camouflage as a military technology? Optical camouflage using retroreflections or metamaterials has the potential to be a powerful weapon when combined with stealth technology. The ability to maximise the concealment of fighter jets, warships, submarines, and more could drastically change the face of warfare. However, we must remember how misuse of technology has led to tragedy in the past. For example, during World War II, the atomic bomb caused enormous damage to humanity, which scientists could not predict in advance.
Similarly, optical camouflage can pose a huge unethical problem when weaponised. In warfare or espionage, the creation of a technology that can completely conceal an enemy could spark a new arms race and lead to even greater destruction and human suffering.

Conclusion

Optical camouflage is an advancement in science and technology, and its possibilities are endless. However, if this technology is weaponised and used in warfare, we will face even greater ethical challenges. Science and technology can be neutral in itself, but how it is used can have a profound impact. When optical camouflage is commercialised in the future, we will need to consider its responsible use to ensure that it has a positive impact on humanity.