Invasive Technification Critical Essays in the Philosophy of Technology

Technology has extended its reach to the human body, not just in a literal sense, through implants, transplants andtechnological substitutes for biological organs, but in a more figurative sense too. Technological infrastructure and the institutions of a technified society todaydetermine what perception is, how we communicate and what forms of human relationship with the natural world are possible. A fundamental new conceptionof technology is urgently needed. Technology can no longer be seen as a means for efficiently attaining pre-established ends. Rather, it must be seen as atotal structurewhich makes new forms ofhuman action and human relationship possible, while limiting the possibilities of others. InInvasive Technification, acclaimed German philosopher Gernot Böhme offers a readingof technology that explores the many dimensions in which technology presents challenges for modern human beings. It is a book about the preservation ofhumanity and humane values under the demanding conditions of a technically advanced civilisation and makes a major contribution to the contemporaryphilosophy of technology.

Preface\ 1. Introduction \ 2. Science, Technology, Civilisation \ 3. UnderstandingTechnology: Use and Entertainment \ 4. The Technification of Human Relations \ 5.The Technification of Nature \ 6. Critique of Technology \ Appendix: The LastMan as Übermensch \ Index