Analysis Of Questioning Technology By Feenberg

Unlike many of the writers that have been covered in this class, Feenberg does not feel the need to drown readers in a sea of senseless jargon in order to make a point (I am indeed referring to Haraway). Rather his goal is merely to challenge our common sense instincts on technology, hence the title ‘Questioning Technology’. Specifically, he is attempting to push against the initials views many may hold regarding the perceived neutrality and objectivity of technology, which leads many to envision a technocracy (a government run by technological experts) as an ideal system. His goal as I understand it, is to show that technology is not just an impartial observer, distinct from society, but an integral part of it, subject to both social changes and political movements. …show more content…
As the name suggests, it refers to the fairly simple idea that technology does not necessarily move in a fixed direction, but could potentially move in one of many directions. Ultimately, the direction it ends up taking can be said to be the result of one of many social battles. Feenberg decides to break it down into two general outcomes, the first of which is the preservation of the hierarchy. This is essentially, the ‘bad’ outcome, where those with power manage to perpetuate the power by controlling the development of technology. To him this outcome is the inevitable end of a technocracy. When you base your decisions on what seems to be best for technology, you are really just allowing the system to remain the way it is, which means it will favor the groups currently in power, and allow them to stay in