Technology is a tool for achieving a particular end. But there are different ways to understand the term. For example, the instrumental definition of technology allows us to choose the means towards an end. The end itself is not predetermined. Making the means opens up the full spectrum of human creativity, and the articulation of the end can be informed by human values. An instrumental definition of technology is rich and meaningful, and enables us to define technology according to our own needs.
Value-ladenness
Despite its nihilistic appearance, technology is intrinsically value-laden. In fact, all technologies are designed with values in mind from the beginning. Further, they encode existing human values, and the potential to generate new values. To ignore or deny this inherent value of technology is to disregard the significance of technological innovation itself.
Moral agency
Moral agency in technology is a critical issue in technological development. We need agents that are able to reason morally and socially, and can assess the effects of their actions on sentient beings. This is especially true as computers become increasingly complex and capable of operating without human control in a variety of contexts. These progressive autonomous technologies are currently in development, and they will have important implications for human safety.
Diversity of approaches
Companies that create a diverse board of directors report higher profits. In addition, diverse teams foster creativity and overcome challenges. By hiring diverse teams, companies will be able to expand their tech community beyond traditional tech stereotypes and bring in fresh ideas and perspectives.
Heidegger
In his book The Question Concerning Technology, philosopher Martin Heidegger discusses the essence of technology. This work was first published in Vorträge und Aufsätze in 1954.
Arendt
Arendt’s recent presence at a conference on technology has drawn attention to her ideas about technology and its relation to totalitarianism. While her writings have often been evaluated in relation to totalitarianism, she is less frequently considered when it comes to her thoughts on technology.
Design science
Design science is an approach to engineering and design. It is a discipline that has been around for more than 50 years. However, design research has been limited by its lack of scientific rigour and application in practice. To address this issue, design research has developed a framework for comparing disparate research.