Module 1.1

Is Technology Culturally Neutral?

The general consensus in the reading is that it is not – it is described as a “dangerous technology”, Howe (1998) calls it an exceedingly deceptive technology” (p. 27) with a hidden agenda of the conceptual models and values of the dominant culture. Hence the critique of the western dominated – especially American – monoculture. This technology he feels is intrinsically hostile to the aboriginal worldview, the language and culture of the elders, and to the relationship of land and culture in aboriginal communities.

I came across a video of Andrew Feenberg in the context of another course I am doing. I really like his analysis of the active co-construction or co-creation of the world by the interactions of technology and social and cultural factors – including political and economic forces. His analysis has helped my clarify in what ways technology is not neutral though his analysis of the 10 Paradoxes of Technology:

on Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HzJ_Jkqa2Q