Cultural consequences of computing technology

Abstract

Computing technology is clearly a technical revolution, but will most probably bring about a cultural revolution as well. The effects of this technology on human culture will be dramatic and far-reaching. Yet, computers and electronic networks are but the latest development in a long history of cognitive tools, such as writing and printing. We will examine this history, which exhibits long-term trends toward an increasing democratization of culture, before turning to today's technology. Within this framework, we will analyze the probable effects of computing on culture: dynamical representations, generalized networking, constant modification and reproduction. To address the problems posed by this new technical environment, we will suggest possible remedies. In particular, the role of social institutions will be discussed, and we will outline the shape of new electronic institutions able to deal with the information flow on the internet. Keywordstechnology and culture, cognitive tools, electronic networks, knowledge management, social institutions, collaborative systems. IntroductionWe are currently witnessing a technical revolution based on the widespread use of computers and electronic networks, but this will most probably prove to be a cultural revolution as well. The ubiquitous presence of personal computers in almost every home and place of work, the spread of various mobile devices, the increasing computing capacity and accessibility of servers, combined with the explosive development of the internet and its numerous applications (notably e-mail and the web) have fashioned a technical environment in which we all have easy access to huge computational power, numerous personal contacts and practically boundless information. This technical environment is essentially new in the history of mankind, and our main point is that it cannot but have important cultural consequences.Comparable inventions in the past, such as writing systems or the printing press, have had profound consequences on human culture (Innis, 1951;McLuhan, 1962McLuhan, , 1964 Lévy, 1997). We will examine the influence of these information techniques in history, discerning long-term trends toward an increasing democratization of culture, but also toward a fragmentation of knowledge.

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“…One of the best ways to help inspire such a vision is through educational institutions (universities and the press) in their virtual networks versions. Collaborative work and free individual contributions (aided by VR technology) inside virtual communities (such as the MOOCs: massive open online courses) remain among the best means through which we could deal with a massive flow of information (Memmi 2013).…”