In order to define the technology we have to first take a closer look at what it is. Technology is simply the collective term for a number of processes, skills, techniques, and methods applied in the development of products or services, for the purpose of achieving specific goals, for example scientific research or military strategy. Many people often use the word technology in a much broader sense encompassing much more than the technical solutions associated with science, technology, and engineering. Technologists are also cultural creatives charged with coming up with new ways to use technology that adds to human prosperity and well-being in society. These technologists typically hail from a variety of fields and include computer specialists, internet developers, graphic designers, software engineers, electrical engineers, chemical researchers, electrical technicians, and manufacturing engineers.
Science and technology have largely contributed to the modern world. All material items that we use on a day-to-day basis were initially created through the application of certain knowledge gained via scientific research and study. For example, the development of automobiles was largely the result of accumulated knowledge regarding the mechanisms of air and water molecules. Similarly, technological systems like power plants and the sewage treatment plants built to regulate our waste materials are examples of scientific research and studies. Without this knowledge, most of these technologies would not have been developed.
Engineers and technologists collaborate and work together in developing new technologies. They use their scientific knowledge and new methods to design new, better, and new ways of doing things, which in turn help the human race to adapt to the changing environments. Technological innovations not only help us to live more comfortably but also to excel in our professional and personal lives. With the help of these technologies, we can now better handle all sorts of problems such as pollution, energy, global warming, health care, and financial problems.
Technologists are faced with many challenges while they work on developing new technologies. One of the key questions is how to collect and store the genetic information of an organism in a way that will enable future generations to create new and improved organisms. Another important key question is how to manipulate the existing organisms without making them deteriorate. A third area of concern is to find ways of using the knowledge of genetic engineering to help the afflicted regions of the globe. In fact, the coming up of new technology should be viewed as a way of giving humanity a hand in uplifting the world’s poorest regions and providing them with the means of economic progress, higher standard of living, and quality healthcare.
Technological systems and technologies have the potential to either benefit humanity or negatively impact it. Hence, it is important to address some key questions before introducing any new technologies. First and foremost, we need to ask ourselves, is this venture going to be beneficial for the human presence? Will it enhance the human presence in its natural and unaltered state or will it bring about its destruction? This will determine the magnitude and the severity of the consequences of introducing any new technologies or systems.
Second, will such new technologies and systems to be compatible with the existing governance and legal frameworks of our society? Third, will such technologies and systems to be accepted by the people and by other stakeholders in society? Fourth, how will the introduction of these new technologies and systems affect the existing systems of power and major industries? Lastly, will there be certain negative side effects resulting from the adoption of these technologies and technological systems?