Norbert Wiener on Technology and Society

Abstract

Norbert Wiener was interested in the social implications of technology and in particular in the historical, environmental, humanitarian, developmental, ethical implications and issues of discrimination. This research examines his writings for his views on these topics. It also examines the notion that Wiener's work, including his work on cybernetics, was anti-humanistic and militaristic. It identifies themes in the development of his ideas on the topics, including his life experiences, and relates to these to his exhortation to follow interesting problems.