Society for the History of the Philosophy of Technology

History of Philosophy of Technology Timeline, from 1800 to 1980

Our working group has created a first timeline of the history of philosophy of technology, featuring some of the most influential publications in Western philosophy of technology from 1800 to 1980. This timeline highlights developments in how thinkers have engaged with and analyzed technology’s role, purpose, and impact on society, culture, and human thought itself.

The listed publications include foundational texts by philosophers, technologists, and theorists, reflecting the complex relationship between technology and human values. The first timeline constraints itself to the period 1800 to 1980. We hope to expand this in the future, creating timelines for other periods and regions as well.

You can explore this timeline and, if you feel some work or author is still missing, you can reach out to us through our contact page.

Conference on the History of the Philosophy of Technology (Maastricht, 28-30 October)

The History of the Philosophy of Technology Working Group at Maastricht University had held its first conference on the History of the Philosophy of Technology in Maastricht, on 28-30 October 2024.

We define the philosophy of technology as a wide-ranging and comprehensive field of study that includes the philosophical study of particular technologies and the different ways that technology, more broadly, has been considered philosophically. We encourage and promote work that explores these aspects historically, expanding established narratives by mapping interactions between technology and philosophy across different epochs and cultures.

This conference was organized as an activity within the Science, Technology and Society Studies (MUSTS) research programme at Maastricht University.

You can find the conference website here.