Question

Schadewalt uses the story of Prometheus to explain how techne has been described as having a “demonic” character to it. Analyze the character of technology and identify the reasons for ascribing this demonic character to it. What ethical questions are raised by examining the “demonic” character of technology?

Answer 1

Prometheus is a character from Greek Mythology. He was a Titan. He is considered as a trickster. He has gifted humankind; "the fire". He has also provided humankind the gift of 'skill of metalwork'. He was punished by the god Zeus. An eagle was appointed to eat his liver everyday.

So, we can see that he was associated with fire and metal. When these two elements combine then various types of weapons take form. These weapons causes mass killing. Killing and destruction are characteristics of demonic activities. Like this only the technology has also been considered as associated with demonic activities.

Today technologies have become much more advanced. Today we have hydrogen bomb and nuclear missiles. These may prove to be responsible for destruction at larger scale. These can destroy whole humanity. These have already shown their ill effects in two world wars.

Japan has become their major victim. Now a days various biological and chemical weapons are also present. These are also gifts from technological advancements. These causes painful deaths. Possession of such evil technologies disrupts the thinking abilities.

Leaders may become out of control. They become a threat for the whole humanity. North Korea is a recent example of such trends. It developed various missiles based on technology and became a horrific threat for whole world.

Superpower America controlled the situations otherwise world would have seen another world war. Hence it is clear that if technology is not being used wisely then it can show its most demonic face. Its controlled mechanism is important for ensuring sustainable development.