Praxeology Approaches Technology: The Ontology and Epistemology of Our Technological Practices

LAWLER, DIEGO

Spanish Philosophy of Technology

Springer

Lugar: Ginebra; Año: 2018; p. 17 - 30

Abstract In this chapter, I defend a classic praxeological approach to technology: a robust philosophical reflection on our technological practices demands an adequate theory of action. My interest lies in exploring certain ontological and epistemological issues arising from this programmatic statement. First, I characterize the point of view of praxeology and determine the set of basic properties of technical action. Second, I suggest that the application of this viewpoint to the world of the products of technical action par excellence, namely artifacts, encourages the adoption of Wittgenstein?s notion of ?family resemblances? to map that world. Third, I suggest that, epistemologically speaking, the praxeological focus on our technological practices promotes what will be called a ?pluralistic view? of the knowledge embodied in such practices.