The essence of something is defined as the true meaning by way of the "correct" meaning. The reading asserts that modern technology is a means to an end, and further the reading states that we regard technology as neutral. If technology is truly neutral why do we feel like we are constantly chained to our cell phones and e-mail? Heidegger believes that technology is for one of two basic uses; as a means to an end or technology is a human activity, but I believe that technology is a result of human activity. What is the essence of technology?
Going back to the origins of the word essence; it is the true form or purest origin of the thing. We now must look at contemporary uses of technology, and what causes technology to evolve. Before examining this an interesting thought arises in my head as to the idea if technology will be able to change and evolve as a result of our needs. We see this already in some video games, and in some software that adapts to make the user a more effective and efficient worker. Will society ever get to the point that machines will be able to fully take care of themselves? Machines that not only tell us what is wrong, but simply put out an output that describes the parts ordered and what work was performed (perhaps by another machine). So this post might be the result of watching too many movies this weekend, but put in the context of the reading it is interesting to think about.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
I find it interesting as you try to figure out what is the essence of technology is. I never thought of it as a means for human technology. I did think that the essence of technology is that it constantly evolves. Everything upgrades and becomes more innovative as time passes in an exponential rate.
Post a Comment