In this 'Very Short Introduction', Philip Moriarty explains the science and technology behind nanotechnology. He delves into the principles of manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scale, covering topics from quantum mechanics to scanning probe microscopy. The book explores the vast potential applications in fields like medicine, electronics, and energy, while also soberly addressing the ethical and environmental risks. Moriarty demystifies the hype, providing a clear, balanced, and accessible guide to this revolutionary field that is shaping our future.