What is technology?

Ř      Common definitions:

s         John Law

 “…a family of methods for associating and channeling other entities and forces, both human and nonhuman.”

s         Ron Westrum

-        Technology is things.

“Devices,” ranging anywhere from a pencil to an ocean liner.

-        Technology is techniques.

Based on practical skills (e.g., recipes, instructions, formulas, rules).

-        Technology is abstract knowledge.

Based on complex systems of scientific and technical concepts (e.g., the design of a space shuttle or a nuclear power plant).

 

Ř      Means and Ends

-        Techne: Technique or skill.

-        Praxis: Ethical reason.