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Philosophy of Technology
An Introduction

Val Dusek (Author)

9781405111638, Wiley

Paperback / softback, published 10 March 2006

256 pages
23.1 x 15.4 x 1.4 cm, 0.39 kg

“Dusek’s range of expertise is impressive, and his 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

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).

Introduction 1

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

Subject Areas: Philosophy [HP]
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