Philosophy of Technology

Frederick Ferre

ISBN 10: 0820317616 / ISBN 13: 9780820317618

Published by Longleaf On Behalf Of Univ Of Georgia Press Sep 1995, 1995

About this Item

Neuware - In this widely taught introductory survey, Frederick Ferré explains the fundamental concerns and methods of philosophy and then guides readers through a philosophical inquiry into some of the major issues surrounding technology's impact on our lives. The first half of the book concentrates on key definitions and epistemological issues, including an overview of philosophy as applied to technology, a definition of technology, and an examination of technology as it relates to practical and theoretical intelligence--especially how high technology relates to modern science and how science depends on technical craft. The second half addresses the problems of living with technology. Ferré contrasts Karl Marx's and Buckminster Fuller's 'bright' visions of technology and modern existence with the 'somber' visions of Martin Heidegger and Herbert Marcuse. Next, in offering direction for an ethical assessment of technology, Ferré poses questions about workplace automation, computers, nuclear energy, Third World development, and genetic engineering. Finally, the book considers debates about the mutual influences between technology and religion, and technology and metaphysics. A glossary and a list of suggested further readings are included. Providing a philosophical framework that will remain timely in the face of rapid technological change, Philosophy of Technology will help students in both the sciences and liberal arts to examine comprehensively their own and society's fundamental beliefs and attitudes about technology.

Seller Inventory # 9780820317618

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Philosophy of Technology
• Publisher: Longleaf On Behalf Of Univ Of Georgia Press Sep 1995
• Publication Date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0820317616
• ISBN 13: 9780820317618
• Binding: Taschenbuch
• Condition: Neu
• Dimensions: 229W x 154H x 13D millimeters 229 millimeters width by 154 millimeters height by 13 millimeters depth
• Weight: 299 grams

About this title

Synopsis

In this widely taught introductory survey, Frederick Ferré explains the fundamental concerns and methods of philosophy and then guides readers through a philosophical inquiry into some of the major issues surrounding technology's impact on our lives.

The first half of the book concentrates on key definitions and epistemological issues, including an overview of philosophy as applied to technology, a definition of technology, and an examination of technology as it relates to practical and theoretical intelligence―especially how high technology relates to modern science and how science depends on technical craft. The second half addresses the problems of living with technology. Ferré contrasts Karl Marx's and Buckminster Fuller's "bright" visions of technology and modern existence with the "somber" visions of Martin Heidegger and Herbert Marcuse. Next, in offering direction for an ethical assessment of technology, Ferré poses questions about workplace automation, computers, nuclear energy, Third World development, and genetic engineering. Finally, the book considers debates about the mutual influences between technology and religion, and technology and metaphysics. A glossary and a list of suggested further readings are included.

Providing a philosophical framework that will remain timely in the face of rapid technological change, Philosophy of Technology will help students in both the sciences and liberal arts to examine comprehensively their own and society's fundamental beliefs and attitudes about technology.

About the Author

FREDERICK FERRÉ is Research Professor of Philosophy at the University of Georgia. He is the author or editor of eighteen books, most recently Ethics and Environmental Concern: Theory and Practice (Georgia), which he coedited with Peter Hartel, and Hellfire and Lightning Rods: Liberating Science, Technology, and Religion.