Philosophy of Technology

Val Dusek is Professor of Philosophy at the University of New Hampshire. His recent publications include Holistic Inspirations of Physics: An Underground History of Electromagnetic Theory (1999) and Philosophy of Technology – The Technological Condition: An Anthology (co-edited with Robert C. Scharff, Blackwell 2003).

• Introduction. 1. Philosophy of Science and Technology.2. What is technology? Defining or Characterizing Technology.3. Technocracy.4. Rationality, Technological Rationality, and Reason.5. Phenomenology, Hermeneutics and Technology.6. Technological Determinism.7. Autonomous Technology.8. Human Nature: Tool Making or Language?.9. Women, Feminism and Technology.10. Non-Western Technology and Local Knowledge.11. Anti-Technology: Romanticism, Luddism and the Ecology Movement.12. Social Constructionism and Actor Network Theory.Bibliography.Index.

“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