The Question Concerning Information Technology: Thinking with Heidegger on the Essence of Information Technology

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to explore the essence of information technology using the work of Martin Heidegger. In particular I will refer to his well-known 1954 essay, “The Question Concerning Technology” (Heidegger, 1977d). It is hoped that the ideas put forward by Heidegger in this work can be extended to include also information technology—which may help us say something about the Internet. Since his essay appeared, machine technology—the emphasis in his essay—has been overtaken by a much more pervasive technology—information technology. The question then becomes: can the notions of technology developed by Heidegger be extended to include information technology? If this can be done, what is the implication of this for our understanding of information technology today? In particular how can it help us reflect on the management of the Internet?