Social shaping of technology

Social shaping of technology is the idea that society and cultural factors influence how new technologies develop and are used. It suggests that technology does not evolve in isolation; instead, societal needs, values, norms, and power dynamics shape its design, adoption, and impact. For example, public feedback, regulations, and economic interests can change the way a device or system is created. This perspective emphasizes that technology and society continually influence each other, meaning technological change is not only driven by technical possibilities but also by social context.