The Philosophy of Technology

Abstract

We start by outlining some of the problems concerning technology and society that have led people to reflect upon it. One of the most poignant questions is that of “technological determinism” and the extent to which technology is “under control” vs. the extent to which it controls society. The speed of change, the assumption that technology is beneficial, the uptake and geographical spread of technology across cultures, and the extent to which technology creates a never-ending cycle of increased complexity are just some of the “issues” that require examination in the question of technology’s impact upon society.