Technology refers to the systems, tools and devices that make a modern society run. This includes everything from tangible mechanical devices like gears to intangible systems such as software. Technology can be used in both the public and private sectors, and it’s also a big part of many jobs today. It’s also used in a variety of ways, including improving efficiency, increasing productivity, and reducing costs.
The definition of technology is a complex one, as it is often perceived to be both a means and an end. This dichotomy can create tension between different groups. One group may believe that technological progress is unstoppable, while the other believes that it must be shaped by humans.
Whenever a new technology is introduced, it must prioritize certain paths while neglecting others. For example, the digital camera has deprioritized the analogue photography pathway and its associated behaviors. It has also deprioritized the gratifying but inefficient culture of physically retouching photos in a darkroom.
As a result of this dynamic, apparently promising early technologies often stall midway through development. This is partly due to the fact that it is rare for an invention to be immediately usable, and the emergence of a viable technological system typically involves a process of iteration.
It is therefore important for scholars to explore how technology evolves and the decisions that shape it. This can help to minimize the risk of negative impacts and ensure that future generations are prepared for the impact of emerging technology.