Mythinformation from The Whale and the Reactor A Search...

Mythinformation† from â€Å"The Whale and the Reactor: A Search for Limits in an Age of High Technology† by Langdon Winner. Dr. Winner known for his writings on science, technology and society explores computer revolution, its social and ethical issues in this chapter (6), making it an interesting read. As the title implies it highlights the myths1 anticipated when the computer revolution2 started. Even though the extract was written in the 1980s, it is extremely relevant even today. Dr Winner begins the chapter by telling us that the term â€Å"Computer Revolution† has become a â€Å"standard feature in contemporary writings on computers and society† (Page - 98). He further explains that irrespective of the label (information revolution, microelectronics revolution or network revolution.) it is being categorised into, the message is usually the same (Page 98 and 99) – that is the increase in the usage of computers and other technological devices will benefit all the spheres of the society and its overall impact will be useful for one and all. He beautifully argues by the giving the example of the revolution of the Sandinistas in Nicaragua (a third world country) that the most obvious questions which we ask for any political revolution should also be pondered upon in this case as well. â€Å"Is this a movement truly committed to social justice? Does it seek to uphold a valid ideal of human freedom? Does it aspire to a system of democratic ru le?† (Page - 99). As we read in the first