Technology and the Character of Contemporary Life : A Philosophical Inquiry

Blending social analysis and philosophy, Albert Borgmann maintains that technology creates a controlling pattern in our lives. This pattern, discernible even in such an inconspicuous action as switching on a stereo, has global effects: it sharply divides life into labor and leisure, it sustains the industrial democracies, and it fosters the view that the earth itself is a technological device. He argues that technology has served us as well in conquering hunger and disease, but that when we turn to it for richer experiences, it leads instead to a life dominated by effortless and thoughtless consumption. Borgmann does not reject technology but calls for public conversation about the nature of the good life. He counsels us to make room in a technological age for matters of ultimate concern-things and practices that engage us in their own right. --Back cover Technology and theory -- Theories of technology -- The choice of a theory -- Scientific theory -- Scientific explanation -- The scope of scientific explanation -- Science and technology -- The promise of technology -- The device paradigm -- The foreground of technology -- Devices, means, and machines -- Paradigmatic explanation -- Technology and the social order -- Technology and democracy -- The rule of technology -- Political engagement and social justice -- Work and labor -- Leisure, excellence, and happiness -- The stability of technology -- The possibilities of reform -- Deictic discourse -- The challenge of nature -- Focal things and practices -- Wealth and the good life -- Political affirmation -- The recovery of the promise of technology. The advanced technological way of life is usually seen as rich in styles and opportunities, pregnant with radical innovations, and open to a promising future. Albert Borgmann. Includes Index. Bibliography: P. 251-292.