1. The Evolution of Technology

Question 1

Artifacts of Technology

Answer 1

physical representation of human wants and needs

Question 2

Technological Evolution

Answer 2

no new technology comes from nothing. It is built on something else.

Question 3

Where does new technology come from?

Answer 3

• Creativity
• Technology transfer
• Scientific research/knowledge

Question 4

Technology Transfer

Answer 4

transferred to one cultured society to another

Question 5

Cultural Values Promoting Innovation

Answer 5

• Fascination with Novelty
• Idea of Progress : assumes that the next thing will be better.
• Imperative to Dominate Nature

Question 6

Evolution of Technology

Answer 6

• Invention
• Selection/Rejection
  > Initial barriers:
  # uses not immediately clear
  # based on crude prototypes
  > Production barriers
  > Impact

Question 7

Technological Selection Themes

Answer 7

- Economic
  > ex. water wheel, super sonic transport
- Military "Necessity"
   > ex. international motor truck
- Society and Culture
   > Fads/Fashions
      # ex. atmospheric railway (1840s)

Question 8

Technological determinism

Answer 8

the assumption that technology determines society.