What is technological determinism?

Technological determinism is a theoretical framework that posits that technology is the principal factor driving societal change and shaping human history. This concept suggests that the development and adoption of new technologies determine the structure of societies, their cultural values, social organization, and even the way individuals think and behave.

The theory of technological determinism is often associated with the work of American sociologist and historian of technology, Thorstein Veblen, and later with Canadian communication theorist Marshall McLuhan. McLuhan famously said, "The medium is the message," implying that the characteristics of the technology (the medium) itself are more significant in social change than the content it carries.

Proponents of technological determinism believe that technological innovation is an autonomous process, following its own logic and momentum, which humans cannot control. They argue that once a new technology is introduced, it creates a set of irreversible changes that societies must adapt to if they want to progress and survive.

Critics of technological determinism, however, argue that it underestimates the role of human agency, social structures, and cultural factors in shaping technological development. They contend that technology is not an independent force but is developed and used according to the needs, values, and decisions of people and institutions. This perspective is known as social constructivism or the social shaping of technology.

In summary, technological determinism is the idea that technology is the driving force behind societal changes, often seen as an inevitable process that shapes human civilization in a linear progression. While it has been influential in discussions about the impact of technology on society, it remains a debated and contested theory.