What Does Technodeterminism Mean?
Technodeterminism is a reductionist theory created by an American sociologist, Thorstein Veblen, which states that the improvement of society’s cultural values and social structure is driven by the technology it possesses. Technological advancements as a whole have become a key aspect influencing change and history. Other technodeterminists include Clarence Ayes, John Dewey, and William Ogburn.
Technodeterminism is also known as technological determinism.
Techopedia Explains Technodeterminism
- Hard Determinism: Technology is viewed strictly as a powerful and influential force acting to control social activity. Society organizes itself in order to meet the needs of technology, the result of which is beyond society’s control.
- Soft Determinism: Technology is viewed as a guiding force that helps in society’s evolution, but people still have a chance to make decisions based on the outcome.
