Research Summary: Challenging Techno-Solutionism: The Role of ICT Innovation and the Value of Technological Growth

The presented research argues that the rapid and pervasive innovation within Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has significantly influenced global expectations regarding technology's capacity to address societal challenges, particularly those related to sustainability and equity. This influence has led to a widespread acceptance of 'techno-solutionism,' where technological solutions, specifically from ICT, are seen as primary or sufficient responses to complex problems. The paper critically examines this paradigm, suggesting a need to re-evaluate the role and limitations of technological growth in achieving broader societal goals.

Why it matters

This analysis highlights the critical influence of ICT innovation on societal expectations and strategic approaches to problem-solving. Understanding the phenomenon of 'techno-solutionism' is crucial for developing robust, multi-faceted strategies that go beyond purely technological fixes, ensuring resource allocation and policy development are appropriately balanced and effective for complex societal and environmental challenges.

Key insights

• ICT innovation is identified as a primary economic driver in the current technology-dependent global landscape.
• The pervasive nature of digital devices and systems means ICT innovations significantly influence almost all new technology developments.
• The pace of ICT innovation over recent decades is described as unprecedented.
• The ICT innovation paradigm has critically shaped collective expectations and imagination about technology's potential deliverables.
• A widespread acceptance of 'techno-solutionism' has emerged, rooted in these collective expectations for a more sustainable and equitable world.

Source

arXiv — Computers and Society — https://arxiv.org/abs/2309.12355