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The social function of technology assessmentThe problem of preserving the uneasy balance between a dynamic society and the equilibrium of man-environment society is discussed. Four sets of activities involved in technology assessment are considered: (1) Technology forecasting is necessary to warn of future dangers and opportunities, for effective timing, and to identify tradeoffs and alternatives. But forecasting is also chancy at best. (2) Social indicators need to be developed for the characterization of social status and measurement of social progress, as well as a better understanding of social needs. (3) With respect to technology assessment, the conflict between profitable directions of innovations and socially desirable directions is described, and a systematic way is needed to determine in advance what is technologically feasible to meet social needs. (4) National goals with respect to scientific and technological developments are also required.
Document ID
19720015311
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other
Authors
Huddle, F. P.
(Library of Congress Washington, DC, United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: George Washington Univ. Technol. Assessment: Understanding the Social Consequences of Technol. Appl.
Subject Category
General
Accession Number
72N22961
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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