NEW VERSES FOR OLD MELODIES: THE CHANGING VIEWS OF TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

Current interpretations of technological development remain largely bound to old and insufficient premises, despite notable recent changes and hints of an emerging consensus about a more comprehensive approach. Prevailing interpretations of technological development from four disciplines are analyzed by comparing their treatment of generative, transformative, and impact processes. Most interpretative change includes greater recognition of social aspects of technological development. However this change probably will not prevent more unanticipated deleterious consequences of technology development.