The Necessity of Analyzing the Relationship Between Technology and Values in Iran

Document Type : The Quarterly Jornal

Author

Faculty member at Al-Mustafa Al-Alamiya University

Abstract

The study of the history of scientific and technological transformations in Iran reveals an inverted understanding of Western developments. Our primary global challenges began with the issue of technology, followed by the educational system (embodied in Dar al-Funun), and later the political system (the Constitutional Movement). Subsequently, the philosophical and legal layers of these transformations were gradually introduced into Iran, often with significant delay, through the translation of certain epistemological and philosophical discussions. Among the factors contributing to this flawed understanding and inverted perception is the incorrect comprehension of the nature of technology in Iran. Analyzing the relationship between technology and values highlights the interconnectedness and alignment of the technical layers of the Western world with its epistemological and worldview layers, providing a deeper perspective on how we engage with Western technologies. The research findings indicate that in Iran’s cultural and social life, the dominant approach to technology remains either instrumental or deterministic. This has created significant challenges in understanding the relationship between technology and values in Iran. Therefore, using an analytical-documentary method, this article first categorizes various definitions of technology concerning the relationship between technology and values. Based on the selected definition of technology, it then discusses the significance of the issue from historical, cultural, legal, educational, and technological importation perspectives in Iran. Finally, the article offers research suggestions for a proper understanding of this issue.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Islam and Social Studies
Volume 12, Issue 47 - Serial Number 47
ExecutiveExpert
March 2025
Pages 70-101

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History

  • Receive Date: 31 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 20 October 2024
  • Accept Date: 04 January 2025

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