Technology and Society with Chris Miller and Allen Batteau

My guests today are Cultural engineer-anthropologist Allen Batteau, Ph.D. and design anthropologist Christine Z. Miller, Ph.D., co-authors of the book:  Tools, Totems, and Totalities: The Modern Construction of Hegemonic TechnologyChristine Miller is a professor at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and Allen, a retired professor from Wayne State University.They share details of their interdisciplinary backgrounds, their collaborative book project, and the implications of technology on society. They discuss the concept of sociotechnical systems, the brittleness of technology, and the ethical responsibilities of designers and software developers. They also touch upon the potential impact of AI, user-centered vs. social-centered design, and the role of speculative design in fostering innovation and hope for the future of humanity.Some specific topics that they touched upon: Introduction and Guest BackgroundsChristine's Academic JourneyAllen's Career PathThe Concept of Sociotechnical SystemsHegemonic Technology in Software DevelopmentAI: Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Ignorance?User-Centered vs. Social-Centered DesignThe Importance of Broader Perspectives in EducationThe Role of Universities in Broader EducationThe Impact of Habit-Forming ProductsProductivity and TechnologyThe Evolution and Impact of the InternetEthical Responsibilities in TechnologyThe Urgency and Maintenance in DesignBrittleness of Technological SystemsSpeculative Design and Future PerspectivesConcluding Thoughts on Technology and HopeAllen W. Batteau, a cultural anthropologist and professor at Wayne State University, is a leading authority on the intersection of technology and society. His work, funded by agencies such as NASA and the National Science Foundation, includes numerous publications on aviation, flight safety, and technology in democratic societies.  https://clasprofiles.wayne.edu/profile/ad4408Christine Miller is a design educator and researcher at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). With expertise in socio-technical systems, her research focuses on how social and cultural dynamics influence technology design and adoption. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges anthropology, design, and businesshttps://www.scad.edu/academics/faculty/christine-miller