Option #1
Citation:
Wilson, Daniel C. S., et al. “The Living Machine: A Computational Approach to the Nineteenth-Century Language of Technology.” Technology and Culture, vol. 64, no. 3, 2023, pp. 875–902, muse.jhu.edu/article/903976. Accessed 18 January 2024.
https://eds-s-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.umgc.edu/eds/detail/detail?
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2. Article Summary. The article I chose to read for this assignment investigates the historical concept of living machines using advanced computational techniques. The authors utilize a neural language model to analyze digitized texts from the 19th century. Instead of traditional keyword searches, they employ a masked language model to uncover unique expressions that portray machines as sentient or alive. These unconventional phrases are closely examined to understand how figurative language blurred the boundaries between humans and machines in the past. The authors suggest that, when used thoughtfully, language models can offer exciting opportunities for historical research, shedding light on the complex relationship between humans and technology in the 19th century. The article predominantly adopts a social constructivist approach with elements of technological determinism. It leans toward social constructivism by emphasizing the
role of language and figurative expressions in shaping historical perceptions of machines. The use of a neural language model to detect nuanced phrases suggests an interest in how societal discourse constructed the notion of living machines. The close reading of these phrases further supports this focus on the socially constructed meanings of technology. However, there are also elements of technological determinism present, particularly in the choice of using a cutting-edge
computational method to explore historical texts.
Hello Nicholas,
I couldn’t agree more with your post. Your analysis provides a thoughtful exploration
of the roles of social constructivism and technological determinism in the development of the railway and brewing industry. The railroad for one was a much-
needed turning point that brought about great economic benefits for the society.
