Scientific Technology and the Human Condition

Authors

Vernon R. Wiehe, University of Kentucky

Abstract

Society applauds the recent advancements of scientific technology in fields such as medicine, energy, and communication. While humankind profits in many ways from this technology, a few voices are heard cautioning society to consider the implications of these developments. This paper discusses the gulf which appears to exist between scientific technology and the human condition. Reasons for this gulf are: I ) the failure to develop a philosophy of science in which human values, and aspirations are viewed within the context of scientific technology, 2) the reductionist approach to science in which the parts are emphasized at the expense of the whole; and, 3) the failure to conceptualize behavior in such a way that the situational or contextual variables of technology are understood. The paper concludes by proposing a social ecological model of human behavior which allows for the integration of technology with the human condition.

Recommended Citation

Wiehe, Vernon R. (1986) "Scientific Technology and the Human Condition," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 13: Iss. 1, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1737
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol13/iss1/8