Abstract
Is technology good, bad, or neutral? The prevailing sentiment seems to be that technology is neither good nor bad, but is simply a tool that can be used for either. However, once a technology has been developed, its net effects will be one or the other. The consequences will depend on the intention, or perhaps inattention, with which a technology is developed and applied. The Encyclopedia Britannica (n.d.) defines technology as “the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of human life” (para. 1). The basic purpose of technology, whether mechanical, biological, or digital, is to allow people do things easier, faster, or better. Whether a technology is good, bad, or neutral depends on whose intentions or aims are met and who suffers any unintended consequences. The net effects of a technology, considering both good and bad, is determined not only by whether it contributes to the practical aims of some, but whether it contributes to the betterment of society or life in general.
Highlights
I s technology good, bad, or neutral? The prevailing sentiment seems to be that technology is neither good nor bad, but is a tool that can be used for either
The net effects of a technology, considering both good and bad, is determined by whether it contributes to the practical aims of some, but whether it
John Ikerd is professor emeritus of agricultural economics, University of Missouri, Columbia. He was raised on a small farm and received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Missouri. He worked in the private industry prior to his 30-year academic career at North Carolina State University, Oklahoma State University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Missouri
Summary
I s technology good, bad, or neutral? The prevailing sentiment seems to be that technology is neither good nor bad, but is a tool that can be used for either. The basic purpose of technology, whether mechanical, biological, or digital, is to allow people do things easier, faster, or better. Whether a technology is good, bad, or neutral depends on whose intentions or aims are met and who suffers any unintended consequences.
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