A huge race is on to develop quantum technologies. The time to discuss risks is now

The United Nations has proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. The goal is to recognise “the importance of quantum science and the need for wider awareness of its past and future impact”. But why quantum? Why now?

Quantum science is both complex and weird. It’s not easy to wrap your head around concepts such as entanglement, light existing as both a wave and a particle, or a cat in a box that is both alive and dead (until observed).

The weirdness...