technoscepticism

Technoscepticism is a broad term encompassing a range of attitudes and beliefs that express doubt, suspicion, or outright rejection of technological advancement and its impact on society. It is not a monolithic ideology but rather a spectrum of viewpoints. At its core, technoscepticism questions the uncritical acceptance of technology as inherently beneficial and progress-driven.

Common concerns raised by technosceptics include the potential for technology to exacerbate social inequalities, erode human relationships, diminish individual autonomy, and pose unforeseen risks to the environment or human well-being. Some may point to historical examples where technological progress has led to negative consequences, such as environmental degradation from industrialization or the development of weapons of mass destruction. Others might focus on the psychological and social effects of contemporary technologies, like social media addiction or the displacement of human labor by automation.

Technoscepticism can manifest in various forms, from a cautious approach to adopting new technologies to a more radical rejection of modern technological systems. It often involves a critical examination of the values embedded within technological design and the motivations of those who develop and promote new innovations. While sometimes perceived as anti-progress, technoscepticism can also be seen as a call for more thoughtful, ethical, and human-centered technological development and deployment. It encourages a more critical and less passive engagement with the ever-evolving technological landscape.