Assignment Question

Technological determinism is the dominant way that people conceive of the relationship between science, technology, and society. present a critique of this approach drawing on the findings of the theories we have examined in this unit. – Social shaping of technology – Social construction of technology – Actor-network theory – Feminist new materialism Critically explain your selected theory and use one technological artefact (example) to develop your analysis.

Assignment Answer

A Critique of Technological Determinism: Unraveling the Complex Web of Technological Influence

Introduction

The interplay between science, technology, and society has been a subject of fascination, debate, and scholarly inquiry for decades. Among the various perspectives that attempt to elucidate this intricate relationship, technological determinism has emerged as a dominant framework. Technological determinism posits that technology is an autonomous, self-propelling force that drives societal change, often portraying it as an unstoppable juggernaut reshaping human existence. However, this essay seeks to present a critique of technological determinism, drawing upon the findings of alternative theories that have gained prominence in recent years. Specifically, we will delve into the theories of social shaping of technology, social construction of technology, actor-network theory, and feminist new materialism, highlighting their nuanced perspectives on the interaction between technology and society. To illustrate these critiques, we will analyze the example of the smartphone as a technological artifact that embodies the complex relationship between technology and society.