Paul-Michel Foucault makes an interesting distinction and divides them into 1) technologies of production to create, 2) sign systems technologies to communicate, 3) power technologies to dominate and 4) technologies of the self to build it and procure it.
If we do a deeper exploration, based on the model I presented in the book Multi-being (2021)we could categorize them as listed below according to the biological faculties and motivations of the Homo sapiens.
I accompany these technologies of Being with the prefix supra to mark your highest level of support.
Supraemotional technologies: systematized to trigger immediate positive feelings. For example, drugs.
Suprarational technologies: configured to correlate causes and effects. For example, calculators, computers, and the scientific method.
Supracreative technologies: created to merge intuitive and rational thoughts that impact inside and outside the mind. For example, music and art.
Supraspiritual technologies: prepared to ensure the resistance and prevalence of entire life. For example, the development of non-invasive sustainable energies for vital ecosystems.
Suprainstinctive technologies: designed to achieve genetically programmed behavioral tendencies such as dominance, belonging, sensory pleasure, control, discovery, protection, learning, power, cooperative altruism, communication, transcendence and recognition. For example, media, propaganda strategies and weapons.
All of them respond to different germinal biological forces that drive them.
With this context, it is possible to understand that all technologies created by man have a motivational origin (etiology) and a purpose (teleology) implicit. Obtaining clarity on both determinations is crucial to ensure that their use and development truly uphold well-being.
Therefore, could we establish the beneficial or adverse nature of the latest technologies?
What we can easily identify is that the vast majority of technological tools arise in order to satisfy selfish instinctive desires, which is why they are so dangerous. However, here comes the virtuous turn; We can well use the individualistic impetus that gave rise to them for more transcendent purposes. Technology is not good or bad in and of itself; It is a medium that operates for good or ill.
Will we be able, as humanity, to take that urgent turn?
Based on recent historical events, we are going in the wrong direction, but readjustment is still possible.