Technopoly Analysis Page 92-199

     In the second half of Technopoly, Postman talks about three specific types of technologies; medical, computer, and invisible technologies. One issue in particular that Postman argues is how nowadays, due to the use of technological advancements and the integration of machines into the practices of physicians, that they have become less competent and do not take responsibility for their actions. Postman also lists statistics that show how the United States has an elevated rate of aggressive health care practices, compared to competing countries, such as a more surgeries and elevated doses of medication. This claim only supports Postman’s claim that the U.S is a technopoly based on our reliance on scientific advancements, but does that make us any less competent? In my opinion, I strongly disagree. With the technology we have today doctors are able to be increasingly more productive and are able to diagnose and treat an exceptionally higher amount of ailments than was possible in the past.

     Postman writes that although the U.S might be closely matched in technological advancements to other countries around that world, what sets us apart is our complete acceptance of technology as an ideology. He states, “We have devalued the singular human capacity to see things whole in all their psychic, emotional, and moral dimensions, and we have replaced this with faith in the powers of technical calculations,” (pg 118). It appears that Postman looks down on the U.S for its omission of traditional processes that shape society and create a morality and culture, but I believe that we have progressed so much due to this technology and there is still so much to explore and discover that can assist us in everyday life. There are still moral implications to uphold, but as long as we stick within the guidelines, there’s no reason why we should hold back the development of any further technological advances. I believe that Swedin and Ferro would disagree with Postman’s argument. Not all the outcomes in the history of Computers have been successful, but they still focus mostly on the benefits that technology brings to the world. Although he does raise some valid points at times, to me, Postman’s beliefs seem flawed and very one sided. Where would we be today if we did not push the boundaries of science and technology?

     P.S I don’t often take notice of algorithms, but sometimes they can be useful. One instance of this was when I was shopping on Target.com to buy a comforter for college. Under the page for the comforter was a list of suggestions for items that were similar to what I had bought and it helped me put my room together quite nicely. I don’t usually pay attention to the ads on facebook, but at times it creeps me out how much they pertain to what is going on in my life at the time.