Opposing Views on Technologies Reconciled
In his article “Do Artifacts Have Politics?” Winner proposes two perspectives on technology. Winner does not say that these perspectives are mutually exclusive. One perspective is that the artifacts, which is his term for various technologies, give rise to political norms. The other perspective is contrary and states that artifacts are the result of political norms. By political norms, Winner means social practices as well. In another article, “Amish Technology” by Wetmore, the Amish’s views on technology are examined. Wetmore does not make arguments in his report, but simply describes the Amish way of life and their unique approach to technology. Eventually it is revealed in the article that the Amish believe that technology has the potential to deeply impact their social and political norms.
The Amish’s perspective on technology differs for both of Winner’s proposals, but validate both of the proposals. The Amish are deeply aware that the introduction of new technologies into their society could create new social norms, deeply disrupting their way of life. However, the Amish are less opposed to the introduction of new technologies based on existing social norms. For example, because the Amish wish to remain economically viable, certain technologies such as diesel engines and phones have been carefully permitted in many Amish communities. Because these technologies are representative of values already held in the Amish community, they are largely accepted, and are not believed to have a large, negative impact on Amish life. The Amish’s approach to technology validates Winner’s opinion that the two technological perspectives do not exclude each other.
Winner’s arguments and Wetmore’s examination are very compatible when viewed from the perspectives above. Technologies seem to be both the result of social norms, and the cause of them. These conditions vary for different technologies, communities, and applications. The Amish seem to be aware of both, and are only willing to adopt technologies that are in line with their pre-established values.
