Techno-moral revolutions are radical changes in moral and social norms driven by technology. They are typically characterised by three stages: a period of normative fluidity, a techno-moral panic, and the establishment of a new normative order. Normative fluidity is an unsettled time when old norms are questioned and new ones are proposed, often due to technological advancements. This is followed by a techno-moral panic, a widespread fear that the new technology will undermine societal values. Lastly, a new normative order is established, where society accepts and integrates the new technology into its moral and social norms.
The shape of these revolutions is not linear but rather a complex, multi-dimensional process. It’s influenced by factors such as the pace of technological change, the power dynamics of those who control the technology, and the resilience of existing norms. The techno-moral revolution’s shape can be visualised as a topographical map, with peaks representing moments of panic and valleys signifying periods of normative stability.
The techno-moral revolution concept is not without its critics. Some argue it’s too deterministic, while others question whether revolutions truly result in new norms or just modifications of existing ones. Despite these criticisms, the concept offers a useful framework for understanding how technology influences societal norms and values.
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