antitechnical

Antitechnical refers to a philosophical, social, or cultural stance that is skeptical or opposed to the advancement and application of technology. This perspective can manifest in various ways, from being a mild critique of particular technological developments to a more radical rejection of the role of technology in society.

Antitech thinking emphasizes the potential negative consequences of technological progress, such as the loss of traditional skills, the homogenization of culture, and the erosion of human connections. Proponents of this viewpoint often argue that technology has become an end in itself, rather than a means to improve human life. They may advocate for a more balanced or regressive pace of technological change, to allow for consideration of the social and environmental implications.

Critics of antitechnical views argue that they are often based on a nostalgia for a bygone era or a fantasies about pre-industrial or pre-scientific societies. Others suggest that antitechnical perspectives are frequently driven by a lack of understanding or empathy for the benefits technology has brought to many people, such as increased productivity, improved healthcare, and enhanced global communication.

Antitechnical thinking can also be seen as a precursor to or connected with various social and environmental movements, such as anti-globalization or the ecological and conservation movements. While some antitechnical perspectives can be characterized as Luddite or reactionary, others advocate for a more thoughtful and informed approach to technology, emphasizing its potential to be shaped and controlled by human values and societal considerations.

The place of antitechnical perspectives within the broader context of debates about technology and society remains a subject of ongoing discussion and research.