Technomantic

Technomantic refers to a system of belief or fiction in which technology, information networks, and machines are subject to magical or ritual manipulation. The term blends techno- with -mancy, a suffix from ancient practices meaning divination or foretelling. In use, technomancy can describe real-world metaphors for human–machine interaction or more often a speculative framework in fantasy and science fiction.

Origins and scope: Technomancy draws on longstanding traditions that personify or enchant inanimate systems, extended in modern times by cyberpunk and urban fantasy. In these contexts, practitioners—often called technomancers—pursue control over devices, programs, or networks through symbolic rites, memorized chants, or specialized knowledge of hardware and code. The boundary between science and mysticism is stylized, with computing concepts treated as living, responsive forces.

Methods and motifs: Common technomantic techniques include ritual programming, sigil-based device wards, mnemonic invocations, and the forging of artifacts that interact with machines. Implementations range from fictional rituals that “inscribe” commands into firmware to genuine hacking practices framed as spiritual disciplines. Imagery may emphasize the interoperability of mind, machine, and matter, or present networks as sentient or semi-sentient agents.

In culture: Technomancy appears across novels, games, and films featuring cyberpunk, steampunk, or fantasy-tech hybrids. It often explores themes such as power, ethics, surveillance, and the limits of human agency in a networked world. While the concept has no basis as a real-world discipline, technomancy serves as a literary device to examine technology’s role in society.