Controlling Technology: Contemporary Issues

Do we control technology or does technology control us? Explosive progress in the twentieth century has led to the disquieting perception that technology is not the servant of humanity – but its master.Controlling Technology brings together readings that focus on the conflicting views concerning the nature of modern technology as it relates to the quality of everyday life and to the larger problems of human survival on this planet. The thesis that technology has indeed become autonomous and independent of human ideals is contrasted with the position that, by its very nature, technology can exist only under human control.Like the first edition, this revised edition contains classic essays that are fundamental to the study of technology. To these have been added recent scholarly treatments that analyze the classic tradition, as well as updated popular essays. A whole new section of case studies delves into the topics of computers, information, and virtual reality. Also included are essays on technology and the recreation of nature, which debate the pros and cons of environmental restoration.This excellent collection of essays will be of great value as a reader for undergraduate courses in science and technology studies, technology and human values, and the social dimensions of technology.