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Technological Remedies for Social Problems: Defining and Demarcating Techno-Fixes and Techno-Solutionism
Henrik Skaug Sætra1, Evan Selinger2
1Department of Informatics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway. henrsae@ifi.uio.no.
Science and Engineering Ethics
|December 2, 2024
Summary
This study clarifies the definitions of "techno-fix" and "techno-solutionism," concepts related to using technology to solve social problems. By refining these terms, the research aims to foster more productive discussions on technology's role in society.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Philosophy of Technology
- Science and Technology Studies
Background:
- The concept of using technology to solve social problems, termed 'techno-fix' by Alvin Weinberg in the 1960s, has faced criticism.
- Over time, 'techno-fix' became a pejorative, associated with unrealistic technological solutions.
- Related term 'techno-solutionism' also emerged, facing similar skepticism and lacking precise definition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide precise definitions for 'techno-fix' and 'techno-solutionism'.
- To clearly distinguish between these two related concepts through conceptual engineering.
- To advance the discourse on the role of technology in addressing social issues.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual engineering to refine definitions.
- Analysis of the historical evolution of the terms 'techno-fix' and 'techno-solutionism'.
- Distinguishing the nuances between the two concepts.
Main Results:
- Precise definitions for 'techno-fix' and 'techno-solutionism' are proposed.
- A clear distinction is established between the two concepts.
- The study provides a framework for better understanding technology's application to social problems.
Conclusions:
- Refined definitions facilitate a more nuanced understanding of technology's role in society.
- Clearer conceptualization aids in evaluating technological proposals for social issues.
- This work lays the foundation for more productive future analyses in this domain.
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