Gerstein D.M. The Story Of Technology: How We Got Here And What The Future Holds

New York: Prometheus Books, 2019. — 361 p. — ISBN: 9781633885790.A leading technology expert examines ways to manage the rapid proliferation of technology and come to grips with its pervasive influence. Technology—always a key driver of historical change—is transforming society as never before and at a far more rapid pace. This book takes the reader on a journey into what the author identifies as the central organizing construct for the future of civilization, the continued proliferation of technology. And he challenges us to consider how to think about technology to ensure that we humans, and not the products of our invention, remain in control of our destinies? In this informative and insightful examination, Dr. Daniel M. Gerstein—who brings vast operational, research, and academic experience to the subject—proposes a method for gaining a better understanding of how technology is likely to evolve in the future. He identifies the attributes that a future successful technology will seek to emulate and the pitfalls that a technology developer should try to avoid. The aim is to bring greater clarity to the impact of technology on individuals and society. In particular, he considers three technologies now converging that will shape the future: biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and the "internet of things." He asks: Will we continue to develop new technologies in these fields merely because basic research shows that we can, or should we first consider the likely effects of these technologies on the quality of life at the individual, societal, and global levels? Dr. Gerstein makes a compelling case that rational and informed evolution of our technological options is the best course for ensuring a brighter future.Foundations
In the Beginning
Perspectives and Definitions
Foundations of Technology Development
The Modern Age of Technology
Managing technology
Leading at the Speed of Technology
Assessing Technology
Technology Development Methods
Managing Technology in an Unmanageable World
The future
Thinking Orthogonally
Technology’s Effect on Society
The Technologist’s Responsibility to Society
Appendices
The Technology Lexicon
TRL Definitions, Descriptions, and Supporting Information from the US Department of Defense
Framework for Assessing Technology Development and Availability
Operational View Definitions from the US Department of Defense