antitechnicism

Antitechnicism refers to the opposition to technological advancement, often rooted in concerns about its ethical, environmental, social, or existential implications. Unlike technophobia, which is primarily an emotional aversion to technology, antitechnicism is typically grounded in reasoned critiques of specific technological developments or their broader societal impacts. Movements and individuals advocating antitechnicism argue that certain technologies—such as artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, or industrial automation—pose risks that outweigh their benefits, including job displacement, loss of privacy, ecological harm, or the erosion of human autonomy.

Historically, antitechnicism has emerged in response to rapid industrialization, with critics like Thomas Carlyle and John Ruskin in the 19th century warning against the dehumanizing effects of machinery and factory systems. More recently, figures such as Jacques Ellul and Jacques Ellul’s concept of "technological imperative"—the idea that technology drives societal structures beyond human control—have influenced contemporary debates. Environmental movements, particularly those opposing large-scale infrastructure projects like dams or pipelines, also embody antitechnicist principles, emphasizing sustainability and resistance to "progress" that harms ecosystems.

Critics of antitechnicism argue that such opposition can stifle innovation, hinder economic growth, and leave societies vulnerable to unintended consequences of unchecked technological stagnation. Supporters, however, contend that thoughtful regulation and ethical considerations are necessary to mitigate risks, advocating for a more deliberate, human-centered approach to technological development. Antitechnicism often intersects with broader philosophical questions about the role of technology in defining human values, cultural identity, and the future of civilization.