Asked by Cherie Mitchell on May 10, 2024

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Hero of Alexander, a mathematician who lived in Rome, invented a steam engine in the first century CE. What does this say about William Ogburn's theory of technological determinism?

A) It strongly supports the theory.
B) It suggests that ancient Rome was less advanced than was previously suspected.
C) It demonstrates the ways in which technology always changes society.
D) It suggests that technological determinism cannot always explain social change.

Technological Determinism

The theory that society's technology drives the development of its social structures and cultural values.

Steam Engine

A heat engine that performs mechanical work using steam as its working fluid, playing a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution by powering factories, trains, and ships.

  • Assess the role of technology in shaping social structures and individual habits.
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Jessica SanfilippoMay 10, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
The fact that Hero of Alexander, a mathematician in Rome, invented a steam engine in the first century CE suggests that technological determinism cannot always explain social change. This means that there are other factors that can influence the development and use of technology besides a deterministic relation between technology and society.