Abstract
Value-freedom or value-neutrality is a well-known topic in the philosophy of science. But what about the value-neutrality of technology, medical or other? Is it too far-fetched to imagine technology as in some sense value-neutral — in view of its intimate connection with purposeful human action? No; unexpected perhaps, but less far-fetched than expected. If we try to conceive of technology as a cognitive possibility abstracted from each and every specific social context, we shall find (at least) three senses in which it may be regarded as value-neutral: (1) neutral vis-à-vis different possible uses and ends; (2) neutral before action; (3) neutral qua cognitive object, analogous to the cognitive core of science. The further meanings and implications of these three senses of value-neutrality are discussed.
What is this exercise good for? The nature of technology is indeed worth pondering in its own right, not least from this rather unusual angle. But beyond that: as the possible meanings of value-neutrality are tried out, the radical nature of human responsibility for the social implementation of technology will be highlighted.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Ellul, J.: 1964, The Technological Society. New York: Knopf.
Ellul, J.: 1980, The Technological System. New York: Seabury.
Jacob, F.: 1987, La Statue Intérieure. Paris: Editions Odile Jacob.
Jonas, H.: 1984, The Imperative of Responsibility: In Search of an Ethics for the Technological Age. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Jonas, H.: 1966, The Phenomenon of Life: Toward a Philosophical Biology. Reprint. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1982.
Jonas, H.: 1974, Philosophical Essays: From Ancient Creed To Technological Man. Midway Reprint. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1980.
Proctor, R.N.: 1991, Valuefree Science? Purity and Power in Modern Knowledge. Cambridge, Mass: Harvard University Press.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Sundström, P. Interpreting the notion that technology is value-neutral. Med Health Care Philos 1, 41–45 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009933805126
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009933805126