The Impact of Technology on Societal Progress

The influence of technology on societal progress and social change is not only practical but also deeply philosophical. It raises fundamental questions about the nature of human existence, the structure of society, and the ethical implications of our choices. From the invention of the wheel to the rise of the digital age, technology has been seen as a marker of human achievement. However, this conception of progress is not without its philosophical challenges.

Scholars like Martin Heidegger have warned against an uncritical embrace of technology, arguing that it can lead to a "technological worldview" where everything is seen as a resource that can be optimized and controlled. This perspective risks reducing the richness of human experience to simple functionality, where the value of life is measured in terms of efficiency and productivity. This reductionist view, Heidegger warns, threatens to impoverish human existence. The richness of life, with its complexities, ambiguities, and inherent value, risks being overshadowed by a narrow focus on utility. While the prescription of technology as a dangerous force might seem compelling, I invite advocates to hear my critiques.

While Heidegger demonizes a societal priority on utility and efficiency, these traits are often misrepresented. While the emphasis on utility is often conflated with dehumanization, it is often the path toward the greatest level of productivity. In turn, this productivity creates prosperity that enhances human life. The pursuit of efficiency does not necessarily strip away the richness of human experience; rather, it can liberate us from mundane burdens, allowing us to focus on more meaningful and creative endeavors. For instance, the technological advancements that have optimized agricultural practices, healthcare, and communication have significantly extended human lifespans, reduced suffering, and connected people across vast distances. These efficiencies have freed humanity from the relentless struggles for survival that dominated much of human history, offering more people the luxury of time—time that can be spent on education, cultural pursuits, and personal development.

This brings us to the critical question: On the whole, is it better to be a human today or at some point in the past? It is easy to overlook the challenges of history while focusing on the issues of today. However, it is undeniable that the gradual development of humanity has created more prosperous circumstances in the modern era compared to any point in history. This can unequivocally be seen as societal progress. The assertion that prioritizing technological development inherently emphasizes a detached and mechanistic society is simply untrue. This can be shown by the theory that the abolition of slavery only came about due to machines becoming more efficient than human labor. Despite the cynical nature of this theory, technology clearly served to de-emphasize the exploitative practices of the day. This principle can be extended beyond this example. As technology develops, so does the collective morality of humanity. The increased productivity that comes as a result of technological advancement gives humans the privilege to show increased compassion to others. If collective prosperity is higher, there is a lesser incentive to degrade the lives of others on the basis of selfish motives.

Yet, it is crucial to acknowledge that technology is not inherently good or evil; it is a tool shaped by human intent. The ethical implications of technological progress depend on the values and priorities we choose to embed within it. This calls for a vigilant and reflective approach to technological development—one that is aware of the risks of commodification, surveillance, and the potential erosion of privacy and autonomy. As we continue to innovate, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that technology serves the common good, rather than undermining it.