Navigating the Ambivalent Relationship Between Humans and Technology

Slave or Master of Technology: The Choice is Ours ⋆ Brownstone Institute 🔗

The agencies promoting the hegemony of digital technology – which is also what makes AI possible today – would like nothing better than to neutralise your ability to think independently. But by using this technology anyway, for your own critical purposes, you would be defusing their attempts at undermining human intelligence.

The text discusses the ambivalent relationship between humans and technology, drawing on the philosophies of Martin Heidegger and Bernard Stiegler. Heidegger proposes a balanced approach to technology, advocating for its use while cautioning against being used by it. Stiegler extends this discussion by examining the impact of digital technology on human consciousness and behavior, warning against its potential to diminish critical thinking and creativity. He emphasizes the importance of reclaiming rational sovereignty and using technology for "critical intensification" to promote independent thought. Stiegler also highlights the psychopolitical implications of technology's influence, particularly in education and societal attention. The text ultimately underscores the significance of understanding and actively engaging with technology to safeguard human intellect and autonomy.

Martin Heidegger advocates an ambivalent approach to technology, encouraging its use while warning against being subjugated by it.
Bernard Stiegler highlights the impact of digital technology on human consciousness and behavior, emphasizing the need for critical engagement to preserve independent thought.
Stiegler underscores the psychopolitical implications of technology's influence in education and societal attention, stressing the importance of reclaiming rational sovereignty and promoting critical thinking.