Technology and fear: is wonder the key?

Area of Science:

• Sociology of Technology
• Cultural Studies
• Science and Technology Studies (STS)

Background:

• Technology is a social practice, not solely driven by scientific or economic factors.
• Societies transform through creating and manipulating physical objects, symbols, and cultural forms.
• The integration of new technologies into society is a complex process involving societal 'metabolism'.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue that fear of technology stems from a lack of meaning in the current technological revolution.
• To explore the role of cultural frameworks in shaping societal perception of technology.
• To identify emotions beyond fear that facilitate technology integration.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of technology as a social practice.
• Examination of the relationship between cultural frameworks and technological adoption.
• Exploration of emotional responses to technological change.

Main Results:

• The current technology revolution lacks a robust cultural framework, leading to a deficit of meaning.
• Fear emerges as a primary emotional response when technology is not integrated into a meaningful context.
• Wonder and curiosity are identified as alternative emotional forces capable of facilitating technology integration.

Conclusions:

• Societal 'metabolism' of technology is crucial for its integration, going beyond utilitarian aspects.
• Addressing the lack of meaning surrounding technological advancements is key to mitigating fear.
• Leveraging emotions like wonder and curiosity can foster a more positive integration of new technologies.