Douthwaite thinks that social problems can be solved by technology, but Sean F. Johnston disagrees because of the many consequences that come with inventions that will only last a short while. Johnston states that all humans and regions are all individually unique. Some inventions that make life easier for citizens of the United States may not be relevant in other regions of the world because of different cultures, interests, and needs. Johnston suggests that scientists and engineers consider future consequences when making inventions because the effects can be irreversible. (Johnston, p. 53, 54.). Joyce and Michael Huesemann also state that using technology to solve social issues is harmful and can leave devastating effects. The Huesemanns think that humans are too ignorant to attempt to solve humanity’s problems with one solution. The Huesemanns also state that humans and all living things are connected to nature in every way, even if the connection is not apparent. When humans cause harm to the environment the consequences will always come back and have an effect on humans, who are the cause of harm. (Huesemann, p. 12, 13, 14, 15.).
Most solutions provided to solve social and environmental issues are only helpful in short term and are made without consideration of the future. Burning of coal and harmful greenhouse gases contribute to climate change, but people need to get power to live and have a desire to get to destinations as quick as possible. (Huesemann, p. 12, 13, 14, 15.). If scientific inventions can cause harm to the environment even slightly, than the invention should be forgotten before situations escalate. There are also major consequences that can come with AI. There is only one Earth and one human race, and too much harm can have an everlasting effect.
Tyler, I partially agree with your assessment. When I read Johnston’s paper, I saw it as he was ok with the idea of using technology to help fix unless it starts to damage life. Otherwise, I had no issue with your statement. I am curious about what you believe. Are you more like Huesemanns or are you more like Douthwaite? Do you think that humans will ever stop using technology to try and help our problems? Is there any form of technology where the benefits outweighs the deficits?