The Machine in Me: An Anthropologist Sits Among Computer Engineers

ISBN-13: 9780415920223 / Angielski / Miękka / 1998 / 302 str.

Gary Lee Downey

Opis

In his ethnography of computer engineers, Gary Downey investigates the interface between the human body and the machine. Drawing on interviews, observations and personal interaction with engineers, Downey documents the everyday power of technologys' dominant image in our society. He argues that we need to appreciate how deeply connected we are to the machine, and that it would be hugely beneficial if we could understand ourselves and machines as partially configured of the other - we as part machines, machines as part humans. In this way, we can begin to see both the power and the limitations of technology.

Recenzje

"[T]his book makes an important contribution to the larger project of theorizing the relationship between technology and society. Downey prods readers to rethink the cultural boundary between technology and humanity and focuses much-needed attention on the dynamics of technology-in-use." -- Technology and Culture
"[A]musing and insightful observations about industry trade shows, sharp criticism of the national rhetoric of productivity in the United States in the 1980s." -- Technology and Culture

Spis treści

Preface and Acknowledgments 1 Images Count 2 We Put You in Control: The Trade Show 3 Does Productivity Fit? 4 Seducing Money 5 Adapting a Nation around Automation 6 Beyond Control and Submission 7 Locating Me Inside It: Coding 8 Locating It Inside Me: Confusion 9 The Making of Experts 10 On the Replacement of Humans with Machines: A Different Humanism Notes References

O autorze

Gary Lee Downey is Director of the Center for Science and Technology Studies at Virginia Tech.