Technology has influenced the course of history and human societies. Some technologies have been beneficial while others have caused harm. Understanding how technology works and how it is used is essential to an understanding of global change.
Technology is a thinking process that includes technical methods, skills, processes, and raw materials. It helps people do things and automates them.
Historically, technology has been responsible for the economic interdependence of the world. It has enabled the development of advanced economies and the rise of the leisure class. Today, it is a major source of revenue for businesses. It is also a major source of jobs. It is important for students to understand how it is used so they can apply for jobs that require knowledge of it.
Technology is also essential to the daily lives of everyone. For example, it is crucial to communication, data collection, and protection from hazardous materials.
In addition, it is important to understand the limits of technology. Some technologies can have harmful effects, such as nuclear explosives. Other technologies have positive impacts, such as refrigerators, which have a predictable effect on food distribution.
Technologists, meanwhile, are often ill-equipped to respond to social problems. Herbert Marcuse, a philosopher, asserted that technological societies are flawed.
Moreover, governments struggle to agree on how to define and implement appropriate rules for new technologies. The International Organization for Standardization, a multilateral organization, contributes to the process.
Many technological systems have negative effects on natural resources. Other technologies have positive impacts, such as the Internet and the printing press.