Philosophy of Technology
An Introduction
1. Edition March 2006
256 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Ideal for undergraduate students in philosophy and science studies,
Philosophy of Technology offers an engaging and
comprehensive overview of a subject vital to our time.
* * An up-to-date, accessible overview of the philosophy of
technology, defining technology and its characteristics.
* Explores the issues that arise as technology becomes an
integral part of our society.
* In addition to traditional topics in science and technology
studies, the volume offers discussion of technocracy, the romantic
rebellion against technology.
* Complements The Philosophy of Technology: The Technological
Condition: An Anthology, edited by Robert C. Scharff and Val
Dusek (Blackwell, 2003).
1 Philosophy of Science and Technology 6
2 What Is Technology? Defining or Characterizing Technology 26
3 Technocracy 38
4 Rationality, Technological Rationality, and Reason 53
5 Phenomenology, Hermeneutics, and Technology 70
6 Technological Determinism 84
7 Autonomous Technology 105
8 Human Nature: Tool-making or Language? 112
9 Women, Feminism, and Technology 136
10 Non-Western Technology and Local Knowledge 156
11 Anti-technology: Romanticism, Luddism, and the Ecology Movement 176
12 Social Constructionism and Actor-network Theory 198
Bibliography 211
Index 234
generous conception of what topics a philosophy of technology
should consider is timely. In this field where there is not yet a
'mainstream' viewpoint, too few writers appreciate the
importance of such wide coverage. Fewer still are knowledgeable
enough to speak in all of these areas out of their own
understanding. Val Dusek is and does. His book is precisely what
the field now needs." Robert C. Scharff, University of New
Hampshire
"Val Dusek's Philosophy of Technology offers
students a comprehensive overview of the frequently neglected
relationship between philosophy of science and technology by
discussing classics like Heidegger and Marx and bringing them into
dialogue with contemporaries such as Ellul and Ihde as well as
feminist and ecological thinking." Thomas Achen,
Linköping University "The breadth of coverage is
very impressive. Clearly written, understandable and comprehensive.
Its breadth and clarity of expression make it a welcome addition to
the literature." Journal of Information, Communication
& Ethics in Society
