This course looks at the philosophical problems arising from technology and its relation to nature and human values. In doing so, it draws on a number of philosophical approaches and traditions. Among the topics to be discussed are the relation between science and technology (as well as the relation between philosophy of science and philosophy of technology), the way technology has shaped our perception of nature and human experience, and the ethical challenges posed by technological progress. Topics to be discussed will include the concept of risk, issues in environmental ethics, and social-epistemological problems arising from communication technology. The aim of the course is to convey an understanding of the major philosophical issues in relation to the rise of technology and an ability to assess individual technological developments for their impact on human values. In addition to communicating knowledge of specific positions in the philosophy of technology, the course will also train students in analysing philosophical problems from a range of perspectives (e.g. analytical philosophy and Continental philosophy).
Assessment
Written exam (50%), Tutorial participation and class presentations (20%), Written assignments (30%)
References
Val Dusek, Philosophy of Technology: An Introduction, Blackwell 2006. Anthology: David M. Kaplan, Readings in the Philosophy of Technology, Rowman & Littlefield 2004. Other readings TBA.
