Meaning in Technology

by Arnold Pacey

In previous books Arnold Pacey has written about the role of ideas and ideals in the creation of technology, about the global history of technology, and about how the complex interaction of political, cultural, economic, and scientific influences determines the course of technological practice. In Meaning in Technology , he explores how an individual's sense of purpose and meaning in life can affect the shape and use of technology. Stressing that there is no hierarchy of meaning in technology, he argues against reductionism in interpreting technology in a human context, and for acknowledgment of the role of the human experience of purpose when it helps to express meaning in technology.

In the first part of the book, Pacey analyzes the direct experience of technology by individuals—engineers, mathematicians, craft workers, and consumers. He looks at music as a source of technology, at visual thinking, at tactile knowledge, and at the generation of social meaning. In the second part, he examines the contexts in which technology is used, relating technology to nature and society. He explores our sense of place and of our relationship with nature, environmental concerns, gender, and creativity. He concludes with a discussion of the possibilities of a more people-centered technology—a participatory, ethical experience of technology that values people as well as their environment.

Genres: Technology, Philosophy, Cultural, Nonfiction

272 pages, Hardcover

First published July 30, 1999

Reviews

[Bryan Kibbe · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book that starts with a great idea, namely an investigation into the personal experience of technological devices, as particularly informed by music and rhythm. However, I found the follow through lacking. The book is tremendously well researched, with a myriad of interesting references to other writers, researchers, and historical examples of technological use. However, I kept waiting for the author to offer a more comprehensive and synthesizing take on the variety of sources and insights. Instead, though, I felt the book was fragmented and lacked a sustained focus or argument.

[Adam O’Leary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating analysis of our relationship with technology that seeks to find the potential in taking a people-centred approach that leads technology to benefit humanity and the environment rather than an object-focused approach that leaves little room for individuality. It’d be interesting to see his take on modern tech such as AI and social media, as this book was written in the late 90s when these were in their infancy

[Numberbox]

Unbound photocopies

[Andrew O'Connor · Rating 3 out of 5]

The discourse on music was enlightening. And, of course, the reminder for engineers and scientists to consider the human aspects of their work.
But ultimately a bit rambling and finger-wagging.