This is the story of a seductive idea. Over the past century, the
potential of new technology to solve social dilemmas has captivated
modern culture. From apps that encourage physical activity to
airport scanners meant to prevent terrorism, the concept that
clever innovation can improve society is irresistible, but faith in
such technological fixes is seldom questioned. Where did this idea
come from, what makes it so appealing, and how does it endanger our
future? Techno-Fixers traces the source of modern confidence in
technology to engineering hubris, radical utopian movements,
science fiction fanzines, policy-makers' soundbites, corporate
marketing, and optimistic consumer culture from the turn of the
twentieth century until today. Sean Johnston demonstrates that,
through the promotion of prominent government scientists,
technocrats, entrepreneurs, and popular media, modern invention
became the favourite tool for addressing human problems and
society's ills. Nonetheless, when it comes to assessing the success
of cigarette filters as the solution to safe smoking, or DDT as the
answer for agricultural productivity, the evidence is sobering.
Cautioning that the rhetoric of technological fixes seldom matches
reality, Johnston examines how employing innovation to bypass
traditional methods can foster as many problems as it solves. A
critical examination of modern faith in technology, Techno-Fixers
evaluates past mistakes, present implications, and future
opportunities for innovating societies.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate?
Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image?
Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories?
Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!
Welcome to Loot.co.za!
Sign in / Register |Wishlists & Gift Vouchers |Help | Advanced search
