Examples of Philosophical Reflections on Technology
Philosophical reflections on technology span the Humanities, Analytic, and Political fields. It is also possible to explore ethical reflections on technology. These philosophical questions are often related to technological developments and human actions. The following are examples of philosophical reflections on technology. These reflections are not meant to be exhaustive, but rather are meant to be illustrative.
Humanities philosophy of technology
The Humanities philosophy of technology has emerged as an alternative to the engineering philosophy of technology. The humanities perspective on technology attempts to integrate perspectives that are not technological into the study of technology. It is also more critical of the advancement of technological practices and thought, and emphasizes the societal and ethical issues that arise from them. Some prominent figures in this field include Martin Heidegger, Jacques Ellul, and Karl Jaspers.
In recent years, a new approach to the philosophy of technology has emerged. While many traditional philosophers have attempted to analyze the moral implications of technology, a contemporary approach to the subject has begun to develop. Philosophers such as Peter Kroes and Anthonie Meijers have emphasized empirical accounts of modern technology, as well as greater analysis of the actual practices of technologists and engineers.
Analytic philosophy of technology
This book summarizes the central ideas of the American philosophical tradition of technology and the lifeworld, and combines theory with practice in a systematic way. Its case studies are judiciously chosen, and the interdisciplinary approach is well structured to analyze complex cases. In addition, it employs a phenomenological perspective and a diversity of cultural contexts.
The rise of technology in the twentieth century contributed to the emergence of philosophy of technology. Philosophers such as Martin Heidegger, a German, argued that the nature of technology had changed during this time. Moreover, he argued that “technology” is not just new and innovative but also a part of our everyday life. This argument is found in the famous 1955 lecture he gave on technology.
Political philosophy of technology
The political philosophy of technology can help us understand the complexities of technology. It can also give us a way to think about how technological developments affect democracy. While we often associate capitalist processes with technology, a more democratic process is possible. Moreover, as technology embraces more aspects of social life, social struggles will increase. Hence, it is important to study technology from a macro level.
Social constructivist models of technological change are the most popular in technology studies. This makes them ideal candidates for philosophical study of technology. Social constructivist models do not just deal with technological innovation, but also include implicit accounts of technology’s impacts on society.